PM Modi Celebrates Cultural Heritage During Historic Visit to Trinidad and Tobago

Prime Minister Modi's Address to the Indian Community

During his inaugural official trip to Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with the Indian community in Port of Spain. He highlighted their ancestral connections to India, commended their cultural contributions, and expressed his pride in presenting a replica of the Ram Mandir along with holy water from the Sarayu River in Ayodhya. This gesture recalled the community's earlier support in sending sacred stones and water for the temple's construction.

In his speech, PM Modi remarked, “I recognize your profound faith in Prabhu Shri Ram… The Ram Leelas celebrated here are truly exceptional… The Ramcharitmanas describes the Holy City of Prabhu Shri Ram as so magnificent that its glory is acknowledged worldwide. I trust that you all welcomed the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years… You contributed holy water and stones for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Today, I bring a similar offering with great devotion: a replica of the Ram Mandir and water from the Holy Sarayu…”

Reflecting on his previous visit to Trinidad and Tobago over twenty years ago, he stated, “When I last came here 25 years ago, our friendship has only deepened since then. Cities like Banaras, Patna, Kolkata, and Delhi may be in India, but their names are also found on streets here. Festivals like Navaratra, Mahashivratri, and Janmashtami are celebrated here with enthusiasm and pride. The traditions of Chautal and Bhaitak gana continue to flourish. I see many familiar faces and the eagerness of the younger generation to learn and grow together. Our connections transcend geography and generations…”

He praised the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago, stating, “They may have left the Ganga and Yamuna behind, but they carried the Ramayana in their hearts. They departed from their homeland but retained their essence. They were not merely migrants; they were ambassadors of an enduring civilization. Their contributions have enriched this nation culturally, economically, and spiritually.”

PM Modi continued, “The journey of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago is one of bravery. The challenges faced by your ancestors could have defeated even the strongest spirits. Yet, they confronted adversity with hope and tackled problems with determination.” He referred to the Indian diaspora as “our pride,” adding, “As I often say, each of you is a Rashtradoot, an Ambassador of India’s values, culture, and heritage.”

He acknowledged the ancestral roots of Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, noting, “Prime Minister Kamala ji’s ancestors hailed from Buxar, Bihar. She has visited there, and many present here share similar roots. Bihar’s heritage is a source of pride not just for India but for the entire world. Historically, Bihar has provided new directions in democracy, politics, diplomacy, and education. I am confident that the land of Bihar will continue to inspire and offer opportunities in the 21st century.”

In her welcoming remarks, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar expressed, “We are honored by the presence of a leader whose visit signifies more than just protocol; it is a profound privilege for us. I am deeply honored to welcome one of the world’s most respected and visionary leaders, the honorable Shri Narendra Modi ji, Prime Minister of the Republic of India.”

She commended his leadership, describing him as a significant force in global politics. “Your presence inspires us all, especially the Indo-Trinidadian community, whose roots are deeply embedded in the same blessed Indian soil from which you emerge. We cherish the cultural ties between our peoples, which transcend time and distance, uniting us in a shared history and future. PM Modi, you are a transformative force who has enhanced India’s governance and established your nation as a prominent global power,” she remarked. This marks PM Modi’s first visit to Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister and the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Caribbean nation since 1999, occurring at the invitation of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.