Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, New York, is buzzing with excitement as 15,000 members of the Indian diaspora, representing 42 states across the US, gather for a historic event to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The atmosphere has been described as akin to Diwali celebrations, filled with anticipation and cultural pride.
Prime Minister Modi is set to address the “Modi and US” event around noon local time, where the Indian community will be treated to performances by over 500 artists, showcasing traditional music and dance from various regions of India.
Jagdish Sewhani, a member of the event’s organizing committee, called it a “historic event,” adding, “It feels like Diwali here. It’s the first time in 75 years that an Indian Prime Minister has come to Long Island, and the mayor of Nassau County is thrilled to welcome not just India’s, but one of the world’s most popular leaders.”
Preparations are in their final stages at the Nassau Coliseum, where members of the Indian diaspora have come together to celebrate their heritage. Among them is renowned Indian chef and restaurateur Vikas Khanna, who emphasized the significance of the moment. “When a leader of your country visits, it’s our duty to honor and respect them. Leaders represent not just a party but the country, our heritage, and our ancestors. It’s a moment of pride for us all.”
The cultural performances lined up for the event span the rich diversity of India. Traditional artists will perform ‘Yakshagana,’ a folk dance from Karnataka and Kerala, while artists from Tamil Nadu will showcase the ‘Parai,’ a traditional percussion instrument. One performer shared their pride in presenting the ‘Parai,’ saying, “We are happy to take part in this event and proud to represent our culture.”
Outside the venue, a Mallakhamb group from the US demonstrated their acrobatic skills. Jaydev Anata of the Mallakhamb Federation in the US expressed his hopes of bringing this ancient Indian sport to global prominence, even into the Olympics. “We are using every opportunity to present Mallakhamb as a gymnastic sport here in the US.”
Earlier in a post on X, PM Modi shared pictures of his meeting with members of the Indian diaspora and wrote, “After programmes in Delaware, landed in New York. Eager to be among the diaspora at the community programme in the city and to take part in other programmes.”
PM Modi’s visit to New York is part of a broader diplomatic tour. In addition to the diaspora event, he will chair key bilateral meetings, attend a CEO roundtable, and deliver a speech at the UN Summit of the Future on September 23.
(Inputs from ANI)