A salute to the man who leads a nation with the world’s largest democracy.  A man who lives for his nation and is loved by his country for his selfless dedication and drive for building the NEW INDIA.

Today my dearest Prime Minister Modi, the leader of my motherland, India, visited Houston and was given a warm welcome by President Trump.  He was given a warm Texas-style welcome: “Howdy Modi”.  As the Houston welcomed him “Howdy Modi” he responded so beautifully in a few languages

• Bharat Mein Sab Acha Hai
• Sab Changa Hai
• Badhu Majama Che
• Anta Bagun Di
• Ikar Chinar Gire
• Ilam Saukiyam
• Sarvachan Changala Hai
• Shob Khush Bhalo
• Shabhu Bhala Che

Well, it means “Everything is fine” or as they say in my favorite movie 3 Idiots “Aal Izz Well”.   He said it so well, such a connection to his people through language.   He explained that diversity in our languages, religions, clothes, and food keeps us united and strong.

I was awed by his speech and vision for India for the coming 5 years that I wanted to share some of the quotes which not only touched me but have become learnings I will never forget and incorporate in my life as I travel my journey ahead:

• As the people applauded him for his contributions and achievements for the work, he has done over the past 5 years he responded – “I am only a representative of our country’s 1.3 billion people.”  – Humbleness is key to leadership
• “DHARYA” – PATIENCE – While Patience is the identity of Indians, but NOW we are impatient for the progress of our country
• “VIKAS” – PROGRESS – To take the country to new heights in the 21^st Century with a “NAYA SOCH” – A NEW WAY OF THINKING – Becoming a Nation of CHANGE and NEW Development with SPEED AND DETERMINATION
• Our nation’s mantra is “Sab ka Sath, Sab ka Vikas” – Everyone’s Support and Everyone’s Development.  Moving together as one, keeping everyone interest aligned. When the purpose has the interest of the larger audience then oneself then the path to success is more fulfilling.
• SANKALP to SIDHI – DETERMINATION to ACHIEVEMENT – Biggest Determination is NEW INDIA – We are not comparing or challenging against anyone else, but we are challenging ourselves and changing ourselves
• WITH WELFARE ALSO COMES FAREWELL – For progress, one must learn to let go and embrace change
• NEW NATION of PROGRESS NEEDS CHANGE and we are a COUNTRY OF CHANGE – INDIA IS NOT RUNNING away from challenges but facing them head on to embrace them for change.

The list goes on, but I must say seeing PM Modi’s passion, attitude and determination for change surely excites me and I am honored and blessed to be part of a nation who has a leader who is so humbled in his thinking while leading us through an era of change with confidence, love, and care for his people in his heart.  To conclude I will share MODI’s poem which he concluded with, in Houston

“Woh Joh Mushkilo ka Ambar Hai

Woh Joh Mushkilo ka Ambar Hai

Wohi to Hostlo ki Minar Hai”

It means – The more obstacles we face, these obstacles fuels our determination to succeed (While translating such powerful words in English will not do justice to its true meaning and the energy it carries.)