Members of the Indian diaspora in Paris expressed joy and emotion after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to France, describing the interaction as a proud and memorable moment that strengthened their connection with their homeland.
Several members of the Indian community gathered to welcome the Prime Minister and shared their experiences with IANS following the interaction.
One member of the diaspora said it was the third time they had met PM Modi since moving to France in 2023 and highlighted the growing ties between India and France.
“I came here in 2023, and this is the third time I have met him. I am very proud. India and France share a strong relationship and a great friendship, and I am excited and honoured to have met him once again,” the individual said.
Another member of the community, originally from Coimbatore and now a business owner in Paris, described the meeting as a matter of pride.
“I am of Indian origin and currently live in Paris. It is a matter of great pride to meet Prime Minister Modi,” the person said.
A visitor to Paris said the Prime Minister’s presence had deeply resonated with Indians living and travelling in France.
“All of us are very emotional. Indians here are deeply touched by his visit. Prime Minister Modi has completed 12 years in office, and I believe Indians would like to see him continue leading the country and taking it to greater heights,” the individual told IANS.
Another member of the diaspora, a scientist, said meeting the Prime Minister was an emotional experience.
“Meeting Prime Minister Modi has made me very emotional. It feels as though someone from our own family has come here. I am especially happy about the opportunities and platforms being created for Indian innovators through the growing partnership between India and France,” the scientist said.
A student based in Paris highlighted the benefits of the India-France partnership for young Indians.
“I am very happy after meeting Prime Minister Modi. I came here as a student, and thanks to the strong ties between India and France, Indian students receive a two-year work permit, which is a significant opportunity. I feel honoured to be an Indian citizen and to have met the Prime Minister,” the student said.
The visit also brought together cultural groups representing Indian heritage in France. Rahis Bharti, director of the Dhoad Gypsies of Rajasthan, the Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band and the Bollywood Masala Orchestra, said it was a privilege to be part of the welcome ceremony.
“Today is a very special day for all of us. We were honoured to participate in the welcome ceremony for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Our entire Dhoad Group is here, and we have also been invited by the Embassy of India to perform at the Prime Minister’s programme tomorrow,” Bharti said.
Afridi Bhartiya, a member of the Dhoad Group, said performing for the Prime Minister was a moment of immense pride.
“When Prime Minister Modi arrived, it felt as though a member of our own family had come. We are extremely proud to have performed for him today. Our Jaipur Maharaja Band played the patriotic song ‘Ae Watan’, making the occasion even more special,” he said.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Paris after concluding his engagements at the G7 Summit in Evian. On arrival, he received a warm welcome from members of the Indian diaspora.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he was proud of the Indian community’s role in strengthening bilateral ties.
“Reached Paris a short while ago to a warm welcome by the Indian diaspora. I am proud of their efforts in bringing India and France closer. The India-France partnership is vital for the progress of our planet,” he wrote.
(With IANS inputs)
