During his first official visit to Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the Indian diaspora by presenting them with a replica of the Ram Mandir and water from the sacred Sarayu River. This gesture served as a powerful reminder of the deep ancestral and cultural ties between India and the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago.
Addressing the diaspora, PM Modi acknowledged their unwavering faith in Lord Ram and expressed his awareness of their joyous welcome of Ram Lalla's return to Ayodhya after 500 years. He fondly recalled their contribution to the construction of the Ram Mandir, specifically mentioning the holy water and 'shilas' (sacred stones) they sent from Trinidad and Tobago for the temple's construction. Reciprocating their devotion, he brought the Ram Mandir replica and Sarayu water as symbols of shared faith and heritage.
PM Modi emphasized that the relationship between India and Trinidad and Tobago transcends mere diplomatic ties, highlighting the bonds of ancestry, kinship, sacrifice, and love. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, echoed this sentiment, praising PM Modi's visionary leadership and initiatives in modernizing the Indian economy. She noted that he has empowered over a billion citizens and instilled pride in the hearts of Indians worldwide.
Furthermore, PM Modi lauded the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago for their courage and for serving as ambassadors of India's values and heritage. He touched upon India's growing achievements in space, including the naming of Chandrayaan-3's landing site as 'Shiv Shakti Point' and the ongoing 'Gaganyaan' mission, highlighting India's commitment to sharing its progress with the world.
The presentation of the Ram Mandir replica and Sarayu water is a symbolic gesture that reinforces the strong cultural and spiritual connections between India and its diaspora. It serves as a reminder of their shared history, values, and traditions, and it celebrates the contributions of the Indian community to both Trinidad and Tobago and to the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. This visit not only strengthens bilateral relations but also underscores the importance of the Indian diaspora in promoting India's heritage and values on a global scale.