Local Excitement Builds Ahead of PM Modi's Visit to Saudi Arabia, Yoga Popularity Surges

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's visit is anticipated to strengthen Indo-Saudi relations.
- The Indian diaspora in Jeddah views the visit as a historic moment.
- Yoga's popularity in Saudi Arabia is on the rise, thanks to PM Modi's initiatives.
- Local residents are preparing cultural performances for the Prime Minister's visit.
- Yoga is seen as a bridge between Indian and Saudi cultures.
Jeddah, April 21 (NationPress) Preparations are underway for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, igniting a surge of enthusiasm among both the Indian community and local inhabitants. In Jeddah, members of the Indian diaspora are celebrating the visit as a momentous occasion.
PM Modi’s international initiatives to promote Yoga are also gaining significant recognition. This visit is anticipated to further strengthen the enduring ties between India and Saudi Arabia, enhancing cultural and spiritual dialogues.
For the Indian population in Jeddah, this visit is akin to a grand festival. Community members have labeled this occasion as “golden” and “historic.” Salwa Almadani, an Indian expatriate, expressed, “When our Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives here, we will regard it as a sacred moment. We are elated and filled with pride. Words cannot encapsulate our emotions. His contributions are beyond description.”
Students at the International Indian School Jeddah are equally eager for the visit. Nihan Abful, a student, remarked, “It’s a significant event for us to witness PM Modi in person. We’re all thrilled and counting down the days.”
Another student, Soha, mentioned they have been preparing unique cultural programs for the event. “We’ve been rehearsing for Dandiya and various dance performances. We’re genuinely excited,” she shared.
Shireen Farhana, director of Phenom Academy, also voiced her excitement, stating, “This is my second home, and it’s a special honor to welcome Prime Minister Modi. I can’t wait to see him.”
Ghada Asad, a resident of Jeddah, commented, “I’m delighted that PM Modi is visiting Jeddah. It’s his first time here. India and Saudi Arabia have shared a bond for decades. Our herbs and basmati rice come from India -- I truly value this connection.”
“We feel privileged by the Indian Prime Minister’s visit. A strong and historic relationship has always existed between Saudi Arabia and India. This visit will only solidify it. PM Modi’s presence holds great significance for the Saudi populace. We extend our warmest welcome to him,” she added.
In addition to the visit, PM Modi’s efforts in globalizing Yoga are being acknowledged. The practice of Yoga has seen a rapid rise in popularity within Saudi Arabia, with many locals incorporating it into their everyday routines.
“I’ve practiced Yoga for the past decade,” said Ghada Asad. “It’s been tremendously beneficial for my mental and physical well-being. I had physical ailments that Yoga helped alleviate. I recommend it to everyone.”
Salwa Almadani also highlighted how Yoga transformed her life: “I had numerous physical challenges before, but Yoga changed everything. I’ve now committed to teaching others about Yoga.”
Since PM Modi proposed the International Day of Yoga at the United Nations in 2014, it has garnered worldwide attention. The influence of Yoga in Saudi Arabia is evidently growing.
Salwa Almadani stated, “I want to express my gratitude to PM Modi for promoting Yoga. Now, everyone in Saudi Arabia understands its advantages. It’s practiced everywhere -- in schools, colleges, malls, and gyms. It’s for both men and women. Observing PM Modi practice Yoga is truly inspiring. His efforts have made Yoga a global phenomenon and a cultural bridge between India and Saudi Arabia.”
As the visit approaches, one Indian expatriate shared, “We are all very eager. This is genuinely a golden chance to meet our Indian Prime Minister. Preparations are progressing well, but we’re a little anxious and excited about performing in front of him tomorrow.”