Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted by chants of “Modi, Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” upon his arrival at the hotel in New York on Friday ahead of his address to the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

He was seen shaking hands and waving as he acknowledged the crowd that had assembled to see him. “Vande Mataram, Vande Mataram, Bharat Mata Ki Jai, Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” echoed as the Prime Minister inched closer to the supporters awaiting him. 

This comes after his first bilateral talks with Joe Biden, the Quad summit and meeting with top global CEOs.

“Landed in New York City. Will be addressing the UNGA at 6:30 PM (IST) on the 25th,” the Prime Minister said in a tweet.

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“Modiji, we are proud of you,” a person shouted. “Take care of your health, sir,” advised another.

During his visit, the Prime Minister has been meeting with the Indians in large gatherings. The Indian diaspora in the US comprises nearly 1.2 per cent of the country’s population. However, due to the current COVID-19 situation, no such gathering has been planned this time.

“Bahut achha laga (It felt nice),” said yet another upon seeing the Prime Minister.

PM Modi was greeted similarly with warmth upon his arrival in Washington.

“Grateful to the Indian community in Washington DC for the warm welcome. Our diaspora is our strength. It is commendable how the Indian diaspora has distinguished itself across the world,” PM Modi had tweeted earlier.

The year’s theme for the General Debate is ‘Building Resilience through hope to recover from COVID-19, rebuild sustainably, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people, and revitalise the United Nations”.

Due to the pandemic, the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly was conducted virtually last year.