Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: Honoring the contribution of Indian diaspora worldwide

In international, More, News, Travel
January 09, 2024

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, popularly known as NRI Day, is observed annually on January 9 in India to honor and celebrate the priceless contributions made by the Indian diaspora worldwide. This day honors the accomplishments of Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who have greatly benefited their accepted nations while continuing to value their Indian culture and values.

It’s also a day to honor the diverse and large Indian diaspora, recognize their accomplishments, and fortify the ties that bind them to their homeland. It serves as a reminder that the Indian spirit is still very much alive and well in the world, and that its contributions will continue to improve everyone’s future.

On January 9, 1915, Mahatma Gandhi ji returned to India from South Africa, made this day significant in history. Being a Pravasi Bharatiya, after his return to India, Gandhiji led the Indian independence movement and motivated numerous others to fight for the freedom of their own country.

Since the inaugural of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in 2003 by the then Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the event has grown to serve as a forum for reuniting the Indian diaspora with their heritage and promoting their ongoing involvement in India’s advancement.

In addition to honoring these contributions, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas promotes pride and unity among Indians living abroad. It reminds us that Indians are never truly far from their cultural and historical roots, no matter where they live.

Till date, the Ministry of External Affairs has organized 17 conventions to honor notable figures from the Indian diaspora. Events often include interactive sessions, cultural programming, and roundtable discussions. The priorities are resolving issues faced by the diaspora, investigating opportunities for cooperation, and fortifying India’s relations with its fellow citizens around the world.

On January 6, the Indian Embassy in Oslo, Norway observed the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Lier, where they celebrated the tales of NRIs in Drammen and Lier.

The Indian Embassy in Asuncion, Paraguay will celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas with Hindi Diwas on January 14.

PM Narendra Modi ji congratulated Indian Diaspora worldwide wrote, “Greetings on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. This is a day to celebrate the contributions and achievements of the Indian diaspora worldwide. Their dedication towards preserving our rich heritage and strengthening global ties is commendable. They embody the spirit of India across the globe, fostering a sense of unity and diversity.”

23 comments on “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: Honoring the contribution of Indian diaspora worldwide
Leave a Reply