Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, 16 May addressed a large gathering of the Indian diaspora in The Hague, Netherlands, celebrating the resilience of India's diverse culture and marking 12 years since the 2014 Lok Sabha election results that ushered in his government. Speaking at what he called a 'living symbol of Indian friendship,' Modi underscored how Indian identity, values, and traditions have survived across generations and geographies.

A Cultural Homecoming in The Hague

Opening his address with chants of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai', Modi said the energy in the hall briefly made him forget he was abroad. 'So much love and excitement that for a short while, I had forgotten that I was in the Netherlands. It feels as though a festival is taking place right here in India,' he said.

He described The Hague — internationally recognised as the 'City of Peace and Justice' — as having transformed, in the warmth of the diaspora's welcome, into a symbol of Indian friendship. Members of the community, including children, greeted him with traditional performances featuring Lavani, Bihu, and dance forms representing Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Assam. Enthusiastic attendees waved the Tricolour and chanted 'Modi, Modi' and 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'.

Identity Preserved Across Oceans

Modi reflected on the journey of Indian families who migrated to the Netherlands, framing it not merely as a story of displacement but of cultural endurance. 'With time, many cultures have vanished, but India's diverse culture still beats in the hearts of its people. Generations, countries, and circumstances changed, but the family's values and the sense of belonging did not,' he said.

He noted that the diaspora had embraced the Dutch language while retaining their ancestral tongues, and praised the role of Indian community radio stations in the Netherlands for carrying Indian music and culture into Dutch households and keeping traditions alive among younger generations. Dutch leaders, he said, have consistently praised the Indian diaspora's contribution to the Netherlands' economy and society during his past meetings with them.

Marking 12 Years Since 2014

Modi paused to mark the political significance of the date. 'Twelve years ago, on 16 May 2014, something special happened. On this very day in 2014, the results of the Lok Sabha elections were announced. After decades, a stable and full majority government was set to be formed in India,' he said, adding that the public's belief had sustained him without pause since that day.

Reflecting on his political career, he said, '13 years as the Chief Minister and 12 years as the Prime Minister, the continuous support of the 25 crore voters in this democratic world is a big thing for me. This is not just a figure, but a great wealth for me.'

India's Development Trajectory

Modi highlighted India's progress since 2014, citing the country's position as the world's third-largest startup ecosystem and the strides made by Indian youth in startups, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and drone manufacturing. He described the current moment as an era of 'unprecedented transformation,' pointing to Ayushman Bharat as the world's largest government-funded health insurance scheme.

'Today, the country is stating they don't just want transformation but the best of it. Not just the best but fastest too,' he said, adding that India's aspirations and efforts are both 'limitless.'

Bilateral Engagements Ahead

Modi arrived in the Netherlands late Friday evening as part of a multi-nation diplomatic tour aimed at strengthening India's strategic, economic, and technological partnerships across Europe. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and hold bilateral talks with Netherlands Prime Minister Rob Jetten. He is also expected to interact with prominent Dutch business leaders to further bilateral investment and cooperation ties.