Highlighting the importance of the Indian community in Guyana, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “I always call our diaspora the Rashtradoots. An Ambassador is a Rajdoot, but for me, you are all Rashtradoots. They are Ambassadors of Indian culture and values.”
Addressing the Indian community at the National Centre in Georgetown on November 21, he added, “It is said that no worldly pleasure can compare to the comfort of a mother’s lap.” Modi encouraged them to strengthen the bonds between India and Guyana.
Moved by the warmth of the Indian diaspora in Guyana. Addressing a community programme. Do watch. https://t.co/mYbgP67wEd
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 21, 2024
He also expressed, “The love and affection of my Guyanese brothers and sisters remains the same! My experience has reaffirmed - you can take an Indian out of India, but you cannot take India out of an Indian.”
“I visited the India Arrival Monument. It brings to life, the long and difficult journey of your ancestors nearly two centuries ago. They came from different parts of India. They brought with them different cultures, languages, and traditions. Over time, they made this new land their home. Today, these languages, stories, and traditions are part of the rich culture of Guyana.”
Modi emphasized the deep cultural connection between India and Guyana, highlighting shared celebrations like Diwali and Phagwa, and the historic link to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
He also praised Guyana’s unique food traditions, mentioning the popular dhal puri and the seven-curry meal he enjoyed at President Irfan Ali’s home, and acknowledged the shared love for cricket.
“The love for cricket also binds our nations strongly. It is not just a sport. It is a way of life, deeply embedded in our national identity. The Providence National Cricket Stadium in Guyana stands as a symbol of our friendship.
"Kanhai, Kalicharan, and Chanderpaul are all well-known names in India. Clive Lloyd and his team have been a favorite of many generations. Young players from this region also have a huge fan base in India. Some of these great cricketers are here with us today. Many of our cricket fans enjoyed the T-20 World Cup that you hosted this year.
"Your cheers for the ‘Team in Blue’ at their match in Guyana could be heard even back home in India!”
India and Guyana are connected by culture, cuisine and cricket. pic.twitter.com/Mkl5tPPWZV
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 21, 2024
In his speech, Modi invited the diaspora to participate in the Maha Kumbh and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in January 2025.
He extended an invitation to visit the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya: “You can travel to Basti or Gonda, from where many of you came. You can also visit the Ram Temple at Ayodhya. There is another invite.”
Addressed a very special community programme in Georgetown, Guyana. Here are some glimpses… pic.twitter.com/0AShD33Yoe
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 21, 2024
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