Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump was the keynote speaker at a charity event, "Humanity United Against Terror." Watch video
EDISON -- Republican presidential nominee Donald J. Trump attended a charity event Saturday hosted by members of the Hindu community in Edison, where he praised India for helping to combat terrorism.
"We can't have prosperity without security, and that is why we appreciate the great friend India has been to the United States in the fight against radical Islamic terrorism," Trump said Saturday night while headlining a charity event held at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center.
The event, "Humanity United Against Terror," was hosted by the Republican Hindu Coalition.
Attendees poured into the Convention Center and listened to musical performances as they awaited the arrival of Trump, who was coming from an event in Maine, earlier in the day. The event featured terrorism survivors and Indian and Bollywood performers.
"The Indian and Hindu community will have a true friend in the White House, that I can guarantee," Trump said. "I have great confidence in India. Incredible people, incredible country. Generations of Indian and Hindu Americans have strengthened our country ... your values, your hand work; education and enterprise have truly enriched our nation and we will be celebrating a Trump administration together."
In the front row, members of the Hindu community voiced their staunch support for Trump.
Hemant Bhatt, of Iselin, said the Hindu community favors Trump because "he is a real man."
"He speaks what he thinks," Bhatt said. "He is going to work for India, and he believes in Hinduism. He is going to ban the Muslims from Pakistan. India is a victim of terrorism, and illegal immigration."
Sitting next to Bhatt was Sid Thakkar, who said, "I'm excited to be here. I am going to vote for Mr. Trump because he speaks from his heart. He is a strong leader, and that is what our country needs right now. And when he talk about law and order, he really means it."
At a red carpet set up in the back of the Convention Center, Shalabh Kumar, founder of the Republican Hindu Coalition and chairman of the Indian American Advisory Council to the Republican Party, posed for a swarm of photographers with Bollywood stars that were entering into the area.
During a brief news conference in the back area, Kumar spoke behind a lectern and said the Bollywood performers were to provide entertainment, but also to raise awareness about victims of terrorism.
"Every single dollar of ticket sales, sponsor sales ... goes toward charity for victims of terror all over the world," Kumar said to the swarm of photographers and reporters from all over the world, many from the Indian press.
Kumar had previously told the Indian media that the Hindu political organization backs the real estate mogul and former reality show star because of his business record and pledge to help India access weapons, according to a report by The Hindu.
During the news conference at Saturday's event, Kumar said, "When we stand united and put up a platform like this, that attracts the politicians. This is a major victory that we have a presidential candidate come here; they see our strength."
Kumar's son, Vikram, also spoke and said Trump's visit was a historic moment for the Indian community.
"He wants to see Americans united together," Vikram Kumar said.
Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the Find NJ.com on Facebook.