Team Blitz India
ABU DHABI: The Indian diaspora in the United Arab Emirates is gearing up for the largest-ever Indian community summit, ‘Ahlan Modi’ (Hello Modi), in honour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Tens of thousands of visitors are expected on the evening of February 13 at the prestigious Zayed Sports City Stadium here to witness the event celebrating close ties between India and the UAE.
There is excitement and anticipation among the Indian community which is looking forward to this opportunity to engage with their esteemed leader.
Many are talking about the massive community event, called ‘Howdy Modi!’, held in Houston, Texas, on September 22, 2019, where Prime Minister Modi along with the then US President Donald Trump addressed a huge gathering.
The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir which will be the Middle East’s first traditional stone temple. The much-awaited opening of the temple will be marked with a unique ‘Festival of Harmony’ on February 14.
Indo-UAE friendship
In order to make the visit a grand success and a memorable one, many from the Indian diaspora are said to have voluntarily joined hands with the officials from the Indian Embassy and Consulate in preparations for the historic visit of the Prime Minister. The event will be a spectacular showcase of Indo-UAE friendship and the rich cultural tapestry of India, featuring over 400 local talents in a series of captivating performances, according to the organisers.
“It marks a significant moment for the Indian diaspora to reflect on the Indian Government’s accomplishments over the past decade and to embrace Prime Minister Modi’s vision for India’s future as a global leader,” it added.
A united effort
In recent years, the relationship between India and the UAE has flourished – strengthening bilateral trade and mutual understanding. The Ahlan Modi event follows the visit of the UAE President HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India, highlighting the deep connections forged by the eaders of both nations.
Envoys, diplomats from 42 countries visit BAPS temple
Notably, PM Modi’s 2015 address in the UAE resonated with the Indian community, as it included the historic announcement of the land grant for the first Hindu temple in the region.
‘Ahlan Modi 2024’ is a united effort of more than 150 Indian community organisations in the UAE, conceptualised to foster unity and interaction among the expatriates who are from diverse backgrounds; an attempt at embodying the ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family).
