Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam - the languages spoken in four southern states of India, which sends maximum number of people to the United Arab Emirates - at his outreach event 'Ahlan Modi' (Hello, Modi) in Abu Dhabi. PM Modi said people from various regions of the UAE and different states of India have gathered at the venue and "everyone's hearts are connected".
"Today in Abu Dhabi, you have created a new history. You have come here from all corners of the UAE and different states of India. But everyone's heart is connected. At this historic stadium, every heartbeat, every breath, every voice says - Long live India-UAE friendship," PM Modi said at the packed Zayed Sports Stadium.
"I bring with me a message from 1,400 million Indians, and it's simple yet profound - Bharat is proud of you," PM Modi told the Indian community, adding "your enthusiasm paints a beautiful picture of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat'."
The Indian expatriate community of approximately 3.5 million is the largest ethnic community in the UAE, constituting roughly 35 per cent of the country's population.
Earlier, PM Modi reached UAE for a two-day visit to the country. PM Modi's engagements include the inauguration of the first-ever Hindu temple in UAE on Wednesday.
After reaching UAE, PM Modi met the country's president Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He introduced UPI RuPay card service in the presence of UAE President. He hailed UAE President's support in construction of BAPS Hindu Mandir. He also thanked UAE President for his visit to Vibrant Gujarat Summit.
During his visit, Modi will also participate as a guest of honour in the World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai, where he will deliver a keynote address.
Modi's visit to the UAE marks his seventh since 2015 and it is his third visit in the past eight months, underscoring the robust ties between the leadership of India and the UAE. According to a
press release from the ministry of external affairs a number of agreements were signed between India and UAE.
'Ahlan Modi' event is one of the most significant assemblies for PM Modi outside Indian borders, the gathering is an homage to "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," an Indian worldview that espouses global brotherhood.
This event serves to affirm the rich cultural heritage and inclusiveness that epitomizes the Indian diaspora. In preparation for an evening of such monumental scale, with over 60,000 individuals who have already registered, the organizing committee is engaged in meticulous coordination with Abu Dhabi authorities to guarantee an event marked by grandeur and seamless execution. This mirrors the profound support for Prime Minister Modi within the UAE and reflects the strong support extended by the UAE leadership. The event highlights the dynamic participation of Indian schools and student groups, underlining the strengthening ties between Indian governance and its youth. Such initiatives are designed to root the young firmly in their heritage, while actively encouraging their participation in the nation's progress.
Key highlights of the event included: An exhibition by over 700 cultural artists, bringing to life the vast diversity of Indian arts, ensuring an inclusive cultural soiree. Active participation from more than 150 Indian community groups, showcasing India's regional diversity and the organizing committee's dedication to social inclusivity. The integration of thousands of blue-collar workers from across the emirates, weaving a rich tapestry of diversity and unity into the fabric of the event. In a remarkable display of solidarity and anticipation, the ‘Nari Shakti’ of the Indian community have shown overwhelming support and enthusiasm. They have registered in significant numbers and are actively promoting the event, embodying the spirit of women empowerment, communal harmony and participation.
Speaking on the event PNC Menon, founder and chairman of Sobha Realty, said: “Ahlan Modi is not just an event, it is a celebration of unity in diversity, resonating across borders.”
