PM Modi Receives Historic Gift During Croatia Visit
Significant Cultural Exchange
On June 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic for a unique gift: a reprint of the first printed Sanskrit grammar, originally authored in Latin by Croatian scholar Filip Vezdin in 1790. This gesture symbolizes the deep-rooted intellectual and cultural connections between India and Croatia, marking a significant moment during PM Modi's historic visit—the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia.
Following his visit, PM Modi referred to the gift as a "remarkable symbol" of the lasting ties between the two nations. He shared his appreciation on social media, stating, "Thank you, Prime Minister Plenkovic. This is indeed a remarkable symbol of the enduring intellectual and cultural bonds between India and Croatia! May these bonds get even stronger in the times to come."
The reprint of Vezdin's work, which was exchanged formally, carries substantial historical significance. Vezdin, also known as Ivan Filip Vezdin, was an early Indologist who arrived in Malabar as a missionary in 1774 and later became the Vicar-General on the Malabar Coast. He authored the Latin text Sanskritum Linguae Instituti, which is recognized as the first printed Sanskrit grammar, based on his studies with Kerala Brahmins and local manuscripts.
In a social media update, Plenkovic remarked, "To the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, I handed over a reprint of Vezdin's Sanskrit grammar—the first printed Sanskrit grammar, written in Latin in 1790... a symbol of early cultural ties between Croatia and India." He emphasized that Vezdin was among the first European scholars to engage deeply with Indian languages and culture.
Additionally, Plenkovic presented PM Modi with a book titled 'Croatia and India, Bilateral Navigator for Diplomats and Business', written by Croatian diplomat Sinisa Grgica. This book provides a comparative analysis of both nations and outlines potential avenues for future collaboration. Plenkovic noted, "This book reflects our achievements and the potential we can still realize, and we believe that it will inspire and encourage the strengthening of our future cooperation."
Upon his arrival in Croatia, PM Modi received a warm welcome at Franjo Tudman Airport, complete with ceremonial honors. He was greeted by enthusiastic members of the Indian community and Croatian citizens, who chanted slogans like "Modi-Modi", "Bharat Mata Ki Jai", and "Vande Mataram". At his hotel, traditional performances and Vedic shlokas welcomed him, showcasing the warmth of the crowd.
"The bonds of culture are strong and vibrant! Happy to see Indian culture has so much respect in Croatia," PM Modi remarked, acknowledging the contributions of the Indian community in Croatia while maintaining their connection to their roots in India.
Later, he received a ceremonial welcome at the historic St. Mark's Square, where delegation-level discussions took place. Plenkovic highlighted the strategic significance of PM Modi's visit, stating, "We welcomed the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Zagreb! This is the first visit by the Prime Minister of India—the most populous country in the world—and it comes at an important geopolitical moment. We are starting a new chapter in Croatia-India relations and creating the conditions for strengthening bilateral cooperation in a number of areas."