You can take Indian out of India, but can't take India out of Indian: PM Modi

New Delhi, Nov 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Guyana, reaffirmed the lasting bonds between India and its diaspora, emphasising the power of shared culture, values, and traditions that transcend borders.

Speaking to a very enthusiastic Indian community large gathering in Georgetown, Guyana’s capital, PM Modi’s message was clear: the essence of India lives on in the hearts of its people, no matter where they reside.

The Prime Minister began his visit with a stop at the Saraswati Vidya Niketan School, a leading institution dedicated to preserving Indian heritage and traditions in Guyana. Praising Swami Aksharananda Ji for his efforts to foster cultural connections between India and Guyana, PM Modi said, “Indian culture and traditions are thriving in Guyana. Institutions like the Saraswati Vidya Niketan are at the forefront of nurturing people-to-people linkages.”

The visit was a testament to how education and spirituality serve as bridges connecting the two nations. PM Modi’s appreciation of the school's efforts highlighted the enduring relevance of Indian traditions and values, even thousands of miles away from the homeland.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister visited the Indian Arrival Monument, a site commemorating the arduous journeys of Indian indentured labourers who arrived in Guyana nearly two centuries ago. Reflecting on their resilience and contribution, he said, “The journey of the Indo-Guyanese community is one of courage and perseverance. They brought with them the rich diversity of India, its languages, stories, and traditions and made Guyana their home. Today, these elements are an integral part of Guyanese culture.”

PM Modi also acknowledged the Indo-Guyanese community's role in shaping Guyana’s socio-political landscape. He paid tribute to leaders like Cheddi Jagan, who rose from humble beginnings to become a global statesman, and highlighted the contributions of President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo as proud ambassadors of the Indo-Guyanese heritage.

PM Modi shared India’s progress over the past decade, describing it as a journey of “scale, speed, and sustainability.” He highlighted the nation's growth from the world’s tenth-largest economy to the fifth-largest and its imminent rise to third place. “India’s growth is not only inspirational but also inclusive,” he said, citing milestones like 250 million people lifted out of poverty and the establishment of the world’s largest digital public infrastructure.

He also emphasised India’s leadership in sustainability, including its 30-fold increase in solar energy capacity and green mobility initiatives. “India has emerged as a champion of the Global South, taking initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuels Alliance to combat climate change. Guyana, with its majestic jaguars, stands to benefit from our efforts under the International Big Cat Alliance,” he added.

A Call to the Diaspora

Describing the diaspora as “Rashtradoots” (ambassadors of the nation), PM Modi urged them to actively participate in strengthening ties between India and Guyana. He invited them to events like the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar and the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj next year.

Bharat Ko Janiye quiz, was also launched by Prime Minister Modi encouraging the second and third generation of the Indian diaspora to deepen their understanding of India’s values, culture, and diversity. “India is a land of opportunities, and each of you can play a bigger role in connecting our two countries,” he added.

PM Modi, while speaking to the parliamentarians in his address highlighted the shared history and aspirations of India and Guyana. “Our countries share a commitment to democracy, sustainable development, and climate justice. Together, we envision a future of growth, inclusivity, and resilience,” he stated.

The visit ended with PM Modi receiving Guyana’s highest national honour, the Order of Excellence, which he dedicated to 1.4 billion Indians and the 300,000-strong Indo-Guyanese community. “This honour is not mine alone; it belongs to every Indian who has contributed to the world with their talent, values, and hard work,” he said.

PM Modi’s visit to Guyana was a celebration of shared history, culture, and progress. His words, “You can take an Indian out of India, but you cannot take India out of an Indian,” resonated deeply with the diaspora and further cemented the unbreakable bond between the two nations.