Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the Indian community in Jakarta on 8 July struck a deep chord among diaspora members, many of whom said the visit renewed their sense of cultural identity and pride. Modi urged attendees to tell their Indonesian friends about India and encourage them to experience the country firsthand, framing India's rise through his signature mantra of 'reform, perform and transform'.

What Modi Said to the Diaspora

Speaking to an audience of approximately 4,000 Indian community members, Modi highlighted India's accelerating growth trajectory and argued that the country's self-reliance was functioning as a 'multiplying force' for the broader region. He called on the diaspora to act as cultural ambassadors, bridging India and Indonesia at the people-to-people level.

Voices from the Community

Neelam Nautiyal, co-owner of the Indian Flame restaurant in Jakarta and a native of Uttarakhand, said Modi's visit stirred a deep sense of belonging among Indian immigrants. 'PM Modi has kept our Indian culture alive, and we too wish to follow in his footsteps. We will teach our children to always remain connected to their culture,' she said. Her husband and business partner, Bhagwat Nautiyal, echoed the sentiment, saying the speech motivated many like them to heed the Prime Minister's guidance.

Siddharth Thaparia, President of the India Club Jakarta, said the reception ceremony was managed successfully. 'Around 4,000 people attended the event and had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister. Listening to PM Modi's speech fostered a deep sense of connection to India among the attendees,' he said. Thaparia expressed hope that the visit would strengthen economic ties and elevate people-to-people contact between the two nations.

Why Indonesia's Indian Diaspora Matters

Indonesia is home to a sizeable Indian diaspora, many of whom have been settled in the archipelago for generations and have built businesses spanning hospitality, trade, and services. Indian cuisine has found a particularly strong foothold, with several establishments — including family-run restaurants like Indian Flame — serving authentic regional fare. This community represents a soft-power bridge that both governments have sought to leverage in recent years.

Broader Significance of the Visit

Modi's Jakarta visit comes at a moment when India is actively deepening its engagement with Southeast Asia under its Act East Policy. Indonesia, as the region's largest economy and a fellow member of the G20, is a critical partner in India's Indo-Pacific strategy. Community members and observers noted that a high-profile diaspora address by the Prime Minister signals the relationship is being elevated beyond bilateral trade figures. The visit is expected to give fresh momentum to ongoing discussions on investment, connectivity, and cultural exchange between the two countries.