Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the enduring cultural bond between India and Trinidad and Tobago after being greeted with a vibrant performance of Bhojpuri Chautaal during his historic first official visit to the Caribbean nation.
Taking to social media, PM Modi shared his appreciation for the traditional welcome, writing on X: “A cultural connect like no other! Very happy to have witnessed a Bhojpuri Chautaal performance in Port of Spain. The connect between Trinidad & Tobago and India, especially parts of eastern UP and Bihar, is noteworthy.” He also posted a video of the performance, captioned: “Bhojpuri Chautaal echoes in Trinidad & Tobago!”
PM Modi met members of the Indian diaspora and commended their contributions to the nation’s growth. “Many people from India made their way to Trinidad & Tobago years ago. Over the years, they distinguished themselves in several fields and are enriching Trinidad & Tobago’s development journey. At the same time, they have retained a connection with India and are passionate about Indian culture,” he said.
As part of his engagement with the diaspora, Modi also interacted with Shankar Ramjattan, Nicholas Maraj, and Vince Mahato—winners of the “Bharat Ko Janiye” (Know India) Quiz in Trinidad & Tobago. “This quiz has generated widespread participation across the world and deepened the connect of our diaspora with India,” he remarked.
PM Modi’s visit is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Trinidad and Tobago in over two decades, following an invitation from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. He was received with full honours, including a ceremonial Guard of Honour at Piarco International Airport and a welcome by 38 ministers and four Members of Parliament of the Caribbean nation.
The visit underscores the historic and cultural ties between India and the Caribbean, particularly through the shared heritage of the Indian diaspora, many of whom trace their roots back to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
