Usha Vance: The Formidable Indian-American Influence in U.S. Politics

Usha Vance, wife of U.S. Senator J.D. Vance, has roots in a highly academic and religious family from southern India. Celebrated for her legal and political achievements, Usha's family values education, with members in prestigious academic and professional positions. Usha played a pivotal role in her husband's political journey.

HYDERABAD, July 18 (Reuters) - Usha Chilukuri Vance, wife of Donald Trump's vice presidential running mate, hails from a family steeped in academic and religious traditions in India. Her 96-year-old great-aunt, Shanthamma Chilukuri, is celebrated as India's oldest active professor, frequently commuting 60 km to teach physics.

This remarkable academic legacy includes Usha Vance herself, who debuted on the U.S. national political stage alongside her husband, U.S. Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, during the Republican National Convention. Usha's Indian immigrant parents, who taught engineering and molecular biology in San Diego, laid the foundation of a family distinguished in both education and tradition.

The family's deep religious roots are reflected in Shanthamma's knowledge of ancient Hindu texts and her authorship of a book on the Bhagavad Gita. Usha's influence extends to her husband, helping him reconnect with his Christian faith. The Indian media highlights Usha among notable Indian-Americans like Kamala Harris, Satya Nadella, and Sundar Pichai, acknowledging her contribution to the political and academic landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)