Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago saw him connect with the Indian community, recognizing their historical ties to India. In Port of Spain, he spoke of their contributions and presented a replica of the Ram Mandir, along with water from the Sarayu River in Ayodhya, symbolizing the deep cultural links and acknowledging the community’s prior support for the temple’s construction.
During the event, PM Modi emphasized, “I am aware of your deep devotion to Prabhu Shri Ram… The Ram Leelas here are truly unique… The Ramcharitmanas speaks of the beauty of Prabhu Shri Ram’s Holy City, whose greatness is known worldwide. I am sure that all of you celebrated the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years… You had sent holy water and ‘Shila’ to build the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. I have brought something with a similar feeling of devotion. It is my honor to bring a replica of Ram Mandir and some water from the Holy Sarayu…”
He recalled his earlier visit to Trinidad and Tobago, over two decades ago. “When I last visited 25 years ago… our friendship has only deepened. Banaras, Patna, Kolkata, and Delhi may be cities in India, but the streets here carry their names. Navaratra, Mahashivratri, and Janmashtami are celebrated with joy, spirit and pride. Chautal and Bhaitak gana continue to flourish. I see the warmth of familiar faces and the inquisitive eyes of the younger generation, eager to learn and grow together. Our bonds transcend geography and generations…”
He lauded the Indian community of Trinidad and Tobago stating, “They left behind the Ganga and Yamuna but carried the Ramayana in their hearts. They left their land but not their soul. They were not just migrants; they were emissaries of an enduring civilization. Their contribution has enriched this nation culturally, economically, and spiritually.”
He continued, “The journey of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago is one of courage. The challenges faced by your ancestors could have broken the strongest spirits, but they faced hardship with hope and met problems with persistence.” He called the Indian diaspora “our pride,” stating, “As I often say, each of you is a Rashtradoot, an Ambassador of India’s values, culture, and heritage.”
Referring to Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s family heritage, PM Modi mentioned, “Prime Minister Kamala ji’s ancestors were from Buxar, Bihar. Kamala ji herself has visited there. People consider her a ‘Bihar ki Beti’ (daughter of Bihar). Many here have ancestors from Bihar. Bihar’s heritage is a matter of pride for the world. Centuries ago, Bihar showed the world new directions in democracy, politics, diplomacy, and higher education. I am confident that the land of Bihar will inspire and provide new opportunities for the 21st century.”
Welcoming PM Modi, Persad-Bissessar said, “We are honored by a leader whose visit is a profound honor for us, and I am deeply privileged to welcome one of the world’s most respected, admired visionary leaders, the honorable Shri Narendra Modi ji, Prime Minister of Republic of India.”
She praised his leadership, describing him as a major force in global politics. “Your presence is a great inspiration for all of us, particularly to the Indo-Trinidadian community whose roots are planted in the same blessed Indian soil from which you emerge. We honor the revered cultural bonds between our people. These bonds transcend time and distance, uniting us in a shared history and shared future. PM Modi, you are a transformational force who has refined governance of India and positioned your country as a prominent and dominant global power,” she stated. This was PM Modi’s first visit to Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister and the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Caribbean nation since 1999. The visit took place at the invitation of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.