Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Saraswati Vidya Niketan Secondary School in Georgetown on Thursday, where he was warmly welcomed by students with bhajans and Kathak dance performances. The cultural display underscored the strong bond between India and the Indian diaspora in Guyana, highlighting the rich heritage of Indian culture thriving in the Caribbean.

During his visit, PM Modi also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at the historic statue in Promenade Gardens. The statue, installed in 1969 to commemorate Gandhi’s 100th birth anniversary, serves as a tribute to his global impact. The Prime Minister spoke about Gandhi’s timeless values of peace and non-violence, emphasizing how these principles continue to guide humanity today.

The Prime Minister further honored Guyana’s Indian heritage by paying a floral tribute at the Arya Samaj monument, which was unveiled in 2011 to mark the centenary of the Arya Samaj movement in Guyana. Continuing his engagement with the Indian community, PM Modi participated in a ‘Ram Bhajan’ recitation, joining the diaspora in playing the ‘manjeera,’ deepening cultural ties between the two nations.

PM Modi also visited the Indian Arrival Monument at Monument Gardens, where he was welcomed by an ensemble of Tassa Drums. Accompanied by Guyana’s Prime Minister Brigadier (Retd) Mark Phillips, he paid floral tribute at the monument, recognizing the contributions of the Indian diaspora in preserving and promoting Indian culture in Guyana. In a symbolic gesture, PM Modi planted a Bel Patra sapling at the site.

Earlier, PM Modi addressed a special session of the Guyanese Parliament, highlighting the deep, enduring relationship between India and Guyana. He described it as a bond of “soil, sweat, and diligence” and emphasized India’s commitment to global cooperation. “We have never moved forward with the idea of expansionism or resource capturing. Whether it is space or sea, it should be a subject of universal cooperation, not conflict,” he stated.

The Prime Minister also spoke on the importance of “democracy first and humanity first” as guiding principles for addressing global challenges. He stressed that the world must move forward by taking everyone along and ensuring the development of all. “Democracy first” and “humanity first” should guide decisions to shape a better future for all, he remarked.

(With inputs from ANI)