Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarkable hour-long address to the US Congress resonated profoundly, eliciting a cascade of standing ovations, resounding applause, and cheers from American lawmakers.
The grand House Chamber at the US Capitol reverberated with chants of 'Modi, Modi' as members of the diaspora community, seated within, expressed their unwavering support.
Creating history once again, PM Modi became the first Indian leader to address the joint session of the US Congress for the second time on Thursday, a significant testament to the growing partnership between the two nations.
PM Modi expressed his deep appreciation, stating, "Addressing the US Congress is always an immense honour, and to have the opportunity to do so for the second time is an extraordinary privilege."
Previously, he had addressed a joint meeting of the US Congress in 2016, marking a milestone in India-US relations.
As Prime Minister Modi entered the House Chamber, a wave of excitement and admiration swept across the room. Lawmakers rose to their feet, applauding fervently as he made his way to the podium, where he would deliver a speech that captivated the audience.
The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, reflecting the deep respect and appreciation for the Indian leader's presence.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepared to deliver his address, he acknowledged the diaspora in the galleries overhead with a wave.
Throughout his speech, PM Modi's words resonated strongly, earning him approximately 12 standing ovations from US lawmakers, accompanied by resounding applause.
The atmosphere was electrified as the Indian-American community, present in the galleries, erupted into chants of "Modi, Modi" and "Bharat Mata ki Jai" on several occasions, demonstrating their fervent support.
Adding to the cultural tapestry of the event, many members of the Indian-American community showcased their heritage by donning traditional Indian attire, enriching the visual spectacle.
In a special moment during his address, PM Modi acknowledged the profound impact of the Indian diaspora, stating, "There are millions here who have roots in India. Some of them sit proudly in this chamber. There is one behind me who has made history."
With these words, Modi referred to Kamala Harris, the trailblazing Vice President who shattered multiple barriers as the first Black, South Asian, and woman to hold the prestigious office.
Notably, Harris's mother, Shyamala Gopalan, a renowned breast cancer scientist, hailed from Chennai, further strengthening the connection between the two nations.
As Modi made this comment, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi smiled and turned her attention to Congressmen Ro Khanna and Raja Krishnamoorthi, who were seated across the aisle from her. She applauded and acknowledged them, recognizing their Indian origin and their presence in the chamber as US lawmakers.
Modi's address also brought about moments of lighthearted laughter among the lawmakers. One of them remarked, "In all this, Indian Americans have played a big role. They are brilliant in every field, not just in the Spelling Bee."
This remark referred to the renowned spelling competition in America that has seen Indian-American children consistently emerge as champions. This year, 14-year-old Dev Shah, an eighth grader from Florida, triumphed at the Scripps National Spelling Bee, further exemplifying their excellence.
As Modi's address concluded, the lawmakers and members of the Indian-American community rose to their feet, offering a prolonged standing ovation and applause as a gesture of appreciation.
As Modi exited the chamber, several lawmakers approached him, eager to shake his hand, offer congratulations, and even obtain his autograph on special copies of his speech that had been distributed among attendees.
Amidst this commotion, members of the community enthusiastically chanted "Modi, Modi" and "Bharat Mata Ki Jai".
