India, Nov. 26 -- In an annual Thanksgiving tradition, US President Donald Trump granted pardon to two large white-feathered turkeys named Gobble and Waddle. Each turkey, weighing over 50 pounds (23 kg), was raised on a North Carolina farm and enjoyed a night at the luxurious Willard InterContinental Hotel prior to their public White House appearance.

In spite of the celebratory mood, Trump took the opportunity during the annual event to make several political remarks, contributing to the over 1,600 pardons he has issued throughout his current term. The ceremonial pardon has its origins in 1989, when President George HW Bush officially initiated the Thanksgiving custom.

Trump maintained that tradition while infusing it with his unique s...