Ram Mandir Replica & Bhojpuri Chautaal Electrify Trinidad & Tobago
In a heartwarming and culturally rich moment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar as “Bihar ki Beti,” acknowledging her ancestral roots in Buxar, Bihar during his historic state visit to the Caribbean nation. The visit marks the first bilateral trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Trinidad and Tobago in over two decades, highlighting India’s growing outreach to the Global South and its powerful diaspora diplomacy.
Ceremonial welcome for PM @NarendraModi in Trinidad and Tobago.
— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) July 4, 2025
PM calls Trinidad and Tobago PM 'Bihar ki Beti'. #TrinidadAndTobago #PMModi #ITVideo | @JournoPranay @Sriya_Kundu pic.twitter.com/greH0rHHbl
Upon arrival at Piarco International Airport, PM Modi received a grand ceremonial welcome, complete with a Guard of Honour, 21-gun salute, and a traditional Indian-style greeting by PM Persad-Bissessar herself, dressed in ethnic Indian attire. In a symbolic gesture of cultural and spiritual unity, Modi presented her with a replica of the Ram Mandir and holy water from the Sarayu River in Ayodhya, acknowledging the sacred connection shared between both nations.
The gifts were deeply significant, as the Indo-Trinidadian community had earlier contributed shilas (stones) and water from the Caribbean during the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, a gesture now reciprocated by the Indian government.
“Bihar Ki Beti” Moment Ignites Emotional Uproar
One of the most memorable moments of the visit was the vibrant Bhojpuri Chautaal performance staged at the airport. This folk musical form from Bihar, involving rhythmic choral singing with dholak and manjira, echoed through the air as Modi arrived, symbolizing the cultural continuity between India and the Caribbean diaspora. Modi later shared the moment on social media, writing: “Bhojpuri Chautaal echoes in Trinidad & Tobago!”
Speaking at a community event in Port of Spain, PM Modi addressed thousands of Indo-Trinidadians, acknowledging their economic contributions, preservation of cultural heritage, and their role in maintaining strong ties with India. He reminded the audience that over 35% of Trinidad and Tobago’s population traces its lineage to Indian indentured laborers, many of whom came from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh during the 19th century.
Referring to PM Kamla Persad’s heritage, Modi proudly said, “She is not just the leader of this nation; she is also Bihar ki beti, who carries the legacy of our shared past.”
The visit goes beyond symbolism. India is keen on expanding digital partnerships, energy cooperation, and health sector collaboration with Caribbean nations. The emphasis on ancestral ties and cultural diplomacy serves as a strategic layer in strengthening long-term bilateral relations.
By celebrating shared heritage, offering spiritual gifts, and investing in future partnerships, PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago serves as a model for how India is reimagining diplomacy through culture, emotion, and diaspora-driven outreach.
