The Significance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), celebrated every January, is a platform to honor the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the country’s development and global influence. Initiated in 2003 by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the event fosters a sense of unity, pride, and cultural connection between India and its Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). The 18th PBD Convention, held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, further underscored India’s democratic ethos, cultural heritage, and global contributions, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed attendees with powerful remarks about India’s role as the “mother of democracy.”
PM Modi’s Address: India as a Beacon of Democracy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the convention, highlighting the enduring democratic values ingrained in India’s way of life. He lauded NRIs as “ambassadors to the world,” emphasizing their role in showcasing India’s global influence.
In his speech, Modi noted, “India’s heritage allows us to tell the world that the future lies not in ‘yudh’ (war) but in ‘Budh’ (Buddha).” He also flagged off the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train designed to take diaspora members on a three-week journey to explore India’s religious and cultural landmarks under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana.
A Cultural Extravaganza in Odisha
Odisha, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, provided the perfect setting for this year’s PBD convention. The event opened with a performance by three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej and was attended by dignitaries, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
For many NRIs, the event was a blend of nostalgia and discovery. Koki Veber, an NRI from Slovenia, praised Odisha as a “hidden gem” and shared her delight in promoting Indian handicrafts through her store, Namaste. Similarly, Punit Manchanda from Canada and Priya Basa, an Odisha-origin resident of California, expressed their pride in reconnecting with their roots.
Global Perspectives: India’s Contributions to Civilization
The convention also featured a virtual address by Trinidad and Tobago’s President Christine Carla Kangaloo, who highlighted India’s profound impact on global civilization. From establishing the world’s first university in Takshashila (700 BC) to pioneering advancements in mathematics, medicine, and navigation, she celebrated India’s legacy as a cradle of knowledge and innovation.
“India’s decimal system and the use of zero revolutionized arithmetic,” she noted, adding that Ayurveda, algebra, and calculus further demonstrated the nation’s rich intellectual history.
Bridging Continents Through Culture and Democracy
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas reaffirmed the vital bond between India and its diaspora. It celebrated not only the cultural and historical legacy of India but also its democratic ethos and contributions to global progress. Events like PBD strengthen ties with NRIs, offering them a platform to reconnect with their heritage and contribute to India’s vision of inclusive growth.
As Prime Minister Modi aptly stated, the Indian diaspora serves as “ambassadors to the world,” showcasing the strength of India’s culture, democracy, and innovation. By bridging continents and fostering collaboration, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas continues to unite India’s global family and celebrate the spirit of democracy and progress.
(With inputs from agencies)
