Prime Minister Modi’s grand reception by Indian diaspora in New York draws over 13,000 attendees

Uniondale, New York, September 22, 2024 — In a spectacular event that drew over 13,000 members of the Indian diaspora, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly received in New York at a grand gathering held at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The program, a vibrant display of India’s cultural diversity and patriotism, featured cultural performances representing states from across India, filling the venue with vibrant colors, music, and a deep sense of unity.

The atmosphere inside the coliseum was electric, with chants of “Modi Ji, aapke karan” reverberating through the air as Modi addressed the crowd. Many in attendance expressed their gratitude and admiration for Modi’s leadership, crediting him for strengthening India’s global stature and fostering a renewed sense of pride in the Indian diaspora.

A Showcase of India’s Cultural Heritage

The event kicked off with an elaborate cultural program that showcased the rich heritage of India’s diverse states. Performers adorned in traditional attire from Gujarat, Punjab, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and other regions dazzled the crowd with dance and musical performances. The stage was a vivid tableau of India’s unity in diversity, a fitting prelude to Modi’s speech on the importance of national unity and cultural harmony.

Chicagoland attendees stood out for their boundless enthusiasm and colorful displays of Hindutva and patriotism. Many wore specially designed “Modi & US” shirts, distributed by event organizers, which added to the vibrant, celebratory atmosphere. One Chicago-based group in particular, led by prominent community leaders like Dr. Bharat Barai, made their presence known through passionate chants of “Modi, Modi” throughout the evening.

Chicago Shows Up in Full Force

The Chicago delegation was especially prominent at the event, with several members playing key roles in the evening’s success. A team of nearly 360 volunteers, including members from Chicago, helped ensure the smooth planning and execution of the program. Some Chicago-based volunteers were even part of the select team responsible for receiving Prime Minister Modi upon his arrival and escorting him to the podium.

The enthusiasm of the Chicagoland group reached its peak as Modi took the stage, with chants of “Modi, Modi” resounding from the stands. Their energy was infectious, and their deep-rooted patriotism was evident, as many waved Indian flags and donned shirts bearing Modi’s image. The Overseas Friends of BJP Chicago Chapter played a pivotal role, alongside several other local organizations, in coordinating the participation of Chicago-based attendees.

Speaking to IndoUS Tribune, one volunteer from Chicago, Ajay Patel, expressed his excitement: “It was such an honor to be part of this event and to personally help welcome Modi Ji. His leadership has brought so much pride to our community, and tonight was a reflection of that.”

Patriotism and Devotion on Full Display

As Modi addressed the audience, he spoke of the deep bond between India and its global diaspora, underscoring the role the Indian-American community plays in shaping the future of both nations. His speech touched on India’s growth, economic achievements, and the strengthening ties between the U.S. and India under his leadership.

Throughout the address, the crowd frequently interrupted with applause, cheers, and chants of “Modi Ji, aapke karan” (“Modi Ji, because of you”). Modi expressed his gratitude for the warm reception, emphasizing the need for unity and continued collaboration between India and its global diaspora to advance the nation’s aspirations.

For the attendees, the event was more than just a celebration of culture—it was a testament to their enduring devotion to their homeland and their admiration for Modi’s leadership. The event concluded with a rousing rendition of the Indian national anthem, uniting everyone in the spirit of patriotism.

Dr. Bharat Barai, a well-known leader in the Indian-American community and a key figure in organizing the event, spoke to the press afterward: “This gathering is a symbol of the incredible bond between Prime Minister Modi and the Indian diaspora. The enthusiasm we saw tonight from every corner of the U.S., particularly our group from Chicago, shows how deeply the diaspora supports Modi’s vision for India.”

A Night to Remember

The grand reception for Prime Minister Modi in New York will likely be remembered as a high point in his visit to the U.S., particularly for the thousands of Indian Americans who came to show their support. From the cultural performances to the roaring chants of Modi’s name, the event showcased not only India’s cultural richness but also the deep respect and admiration the diaspora has for their homeland and its leader.