Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Paris this Thursday [1, 2, 3].
The gathering signals the influence of the Indian community abroad and reflects a desire to project a positive global image of India [1, 2].
Members of the diaspora gathered on the streets of the French capital to show support for the Prime Minister's visit [1, 2, 3]. The crowds waved Indian flags and chanted slogans as Modi arrived ahead of the G7 summit [1, 2, 3].
Reports on the specific nature of the chants vary among sources. Some accounts state that the crowds chanted "Modi-Modi" [2], while other reports indicate that the crowds chanted "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" and "Jai Shri Ram" [1].
Supporters present in Paris said they feel proud of India's current trajectory [2]. They said the global perception of the country is improving, specifically citing the "Bharat Innovates" initiative as a point of pride [2].
This reception is part of a broader pattern of diaspora engagement during the Prime Minister's international diplomatic trips [1, 3]. The event served as a public demonstration of support before the commencement of high-level multilateral discussions at the summit [3].
“The crowds waved Indian flags and chanted slogans as Modi arrived ahead of the G7 summit.”
The mobilization of the Indian diaspora in Paris underscores the strategic use of overseas communities to bolster national prestige and soft power. By aligning public displays of cultural and political identity with high-profile diplomatic events like the G7 summit, India reinforces its image as a rising global power with significant international support.
