It all started on October 27th, as I set off for New York City from New Jersey. My friend and fellow filmmaker joined me on the train, and I was visibly nervous. My MAGA hat was tucked into my belt bag—a subtle yet meaningful symbol of my support. We talked about what it might mean to wear the hat openly in the city. Could we be risking confrontation, or would people simply ignore it?

Once in NYC, we made our way to Penn Station, where a brief glance turned into an unexpected moment. I had just gone to the restroom, and when I came out, I was wearing my MAGA hat. A woman, walking with her young daughter, pointed at my hat and whispered loudly enough for me to hear, “That’s a MAGA hat; those people are evil.” I was taken aback, but I pressed on, fueled by the sense of purpose I felt heading toward the rally. My decision to wear the hat was about expressing my beliefs, not projecting negativity.

As we reached Madison Square Garden, the scene was unlike anything I had anticipated. Around 20,000 people were inside, with an astounding 200,000 rallying peacefully outside. There was an undeniable energy—a collective spirit of support that was at once uplifting and respectful. The crowd wasn’t rowdy; there was no aggression. Instead, there were chants, cheers, and signs of support, all in harmony for Team Trump. Capturing this atmosphere on camera was electrifying; this was a side of MAGA supporters that is rarely shown.

I published my documentary on my YouTube channel on November 2nd, titled Documenting the NYC Trump Rally: My Bold Day as a MAGA Supporter, with the thumbnail reading, “Indian Filmmaker Wears the MAGA Hat in NYC. What Happens Next?”

The response was overwhelming. My comments section was flooded with support from all around the world—voices from countries like Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and as far-reaching as Poland and Japan. People of diverse ethnic backgrounds, from African Americans and Hispanic Americans to Eastern Europeans and Asian Americans, came together in solidarity, sharing their encouragement.Messages ranged from simple expressions of solidarity to profound affirmations: “Just remember, there are billions applauding your bravery. You are not alone,” and “Dare to think for yourself. Dare to question reality. Dare to Make America Great Again.” The support was not only touching but also empowering. I felt connected to a worldwide community of people who champion the values of free speech and individual courage.

Reading each comment reminded me of why I had embarked on this journey.With that support behind me, today, November 5th, I went to cast my vote. Wearing my MAGA hat this time felt different; it felt natural, empowering, and rooted in a community that I knew stood with me. As I entered the polling station, I was not just casting a ballot—I was making a statement. The positive words from people across countries, ethnicities, and backgrounds were my quiet companions, reinforcing my belief in the value of standing by my convictions.

This journey, from that initial train ride filled with uncertainty to casting my vote today, has transformed me in ways I hadn’t expected. Standing at the voting booth, I reflected on those comments from around the world—voices encouraging me to stand strong, to be unapologetically myself. These weren’t just words of support; they were reminders of what the MAGA hat stands for: a belief in a resilient, hopeful America that unites people from all walks of life.

Today, I wore my MAGA hat with pride. For me, and for millions of others who share this vision, the MAGA hat is a symbol of hope and strength—a commitment to building a country that cherishes freedom, unity, and the courage to stand tall. And today, as I cast my vote, I did so with a profound sense of purpose, knowing that this dream is something we all can believe in. For Donald Trump, for those who stand with him, and for an America that’s great because of its people, this is what it truly means to make America great again.