Muscat: Members of the Indian community in December expressed their joy after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a community event in Oman’s capital Muscat, saying they were inspired by his address and felt energised to contribute more actively to their country.

PM Modi addressed a large gathering of the Indian community at the ‘Maitri Parv’ event, highlighting India’s achievements across sectors ranging from digital payment ecosystems such as UPI to space missions including Gaganyaan. He also spoke about India’s rich cultural heritage and its growing global resonance.

Voices of Youth

A school student who attended the event said, “It was such an honour to meet him. I cannot describe the moment when he spoke with me. He was so friendly and talked to all of us. He came in 2018 also but I couldn’t meet him. So, I’m so grateful that my school gave me this opportunity.”

The gathering included more than 700 students from Indian schools across Oman. This year is especially significant for Indian schools in the Sultanate as they mark 50 years of establishment.

Diaspora Pride

A member of the Indian diaspora said the event left a lasting impact. “We are all inspired by this and this is the future of our country. We are really blessed to be here. The whole environment when the PM was speaking was really inspirational.”

Another member described PM Modi as the driving force behind India’s transformation, noting that his vision extended beyond national growth to global welfare.

Shared Aspirations

“PM Modi is the man behind developing India. He is modernising India and the whole world. He even said Omani students should join the space development programmes India is leading. That is what Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is,” he said.

Another community member said the visit left them “charged up” and eager to contribute meaningfully to India’s progress.

Cultural Resonance

A student highlighted the importance of India–Oman cooperation in education, science and space, wishing both countries continued success.

PM Modi began his address amid chants of ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’, ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Modi, Modi’. He emphasised the growing global footprint of the Indian community and acknowledged its role in strengthening India’s relations worldwide.

Mini India Abroad

PM Modi said ‘Maitri Parv’ symbolised friendship, shared history and a prosperous future for India and Oman, describing the Indian diaspora as a living example of coexistence and cooperation.

“I am seeing mini India in front of me… We have gathered here as a family. India is diverse and our culture is deeply rooted in its strength,” he said, adding that Indians adapt easily while respecting local cultures.

He also noted UNESCO’s inclusion of Diwali as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, calling it a moment of pride for Indians globally.

PM Modi thanked late Sultan Qaboos bin Said for supporting Indian schools and expressed gratitude to Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for safeguarding the Indian community in Oman.