Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has become more of a global icon, can expect an overwhelming welcome in Great Britain by its Indian diaspora, as they look forward to the leader's visit to London on November 12 to 14.
More than 450 UK-based Indian organisations have joined in to host the 'UKWelcomesModi' event; a king-sized reception at the Wembley Stadium. Organised by the Europe-India Forum headed by entrepreneur Nathu Puri, the event expects more than 60,000 people. It seeks to create a new record by toppling the number of people who welcomed Modi during his overseas visits and the UKWelcomesModi has an itinerary to outdo the other. With a cultural extravaganza, fireworks, and a massive celebratory party, UK Indians believe their welcome will be the largest to any visiting foreign leader.
Modi has a lot on the agenda, apart from his diplomatic intentions. He will unveil the statue of 12th century Indian philosopher Basaveshwara, on November 14, on the bank of river Thames, London Borough of Lambeth. Giving a special tribute on his radio show 'Mann Ki Baat', Modi said he was honoured to unveil the statue. Also, taking the extra step to reach out to the Dalit community, Modi will inaugurate a memorial at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's London house, purchased by the Maharashtra government. Expressing his excitement, the Indian Prime Minister said, “A day after Diwali, I am going to Britain... I am excited about my visit to Britain and the reason for it is special. A few weeks back, I had gone to Mumbai to lay foundation stone for a big memorial for Ambedkar. Now, in London, I will formally inaugurate the house where Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar lived, which recently became Indian government's property and a place of inspiration for 125 crore Indians.” He added, “This is the place where Ambedkar did his devotion.”
Calling the social reformer an inspiration to the oppressed and the deprived, he said, “When Ambedkar's name is associated, you can imagine how much happiness people like me have.”
In his three-day stay before leaving for Turkey to attend the G-20 Summit, PM Modi will hold talks with British counterpart David Cameron. Both the leaders are expected to deliberate over issues including the Afghan-Pak situation, the fight against international terrorism, rise of ISIL, West Asia crisis and climate change challenges. He will later visit the Mahatma Gandhi statue at Parliament Square and then visit Westminster to address British MPs in what could be a joint sitting of the House of Commons and Lords. Also, with the 'Make in India' campaign on his mind, Modi would probably meet top British CEOs from the manufacturing sector and then stay at the Chequers Court. He may also visit the Jaguar Land Rover factory, owned by Indian Tata Motors.
However, the highlight of NaMo's maiden visit to the UK, it appears, will be his lunch at the Buckingham Palace in London with the Queen. The luncheon meet is expected to take place on November 13, as per sources. The Queen has seen India's transition since she took the throne in 1952.
Modi's Chai Party
Exuberant about Modi's visit, several Indian communities have come up with an innovative way of honouring the Indian PM. 20 towns and cities will host 'Chai Parties' to keep the buzz going where they will engage local communities in topics and themes they reckon he should take up during his meets with the British Prime Minister and the Queen, amongst others.
Modi's possible itinerary
12 November: Talks with David Cameron
Visit Gandhi statue
Address Parliament, Westminster
Chequers Court visit
13 November: Lunch with the Queen, Buckingham Palace
Wembley Reception
Visit Jaguar Land Rover Factory
14 November: Basaveshwara statue unveil
Visit Ambedkar House
