Modi Prime Minister Declines Trump's Invitation to Travel to Jagannath's Native Land, Odisha
Bhubaneswar: The Call of Mahaprabhu
In an electrifying show of spiritual fervor and political conviction, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed an astonishing tale to a crowd of over two lakh people in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on Friday. He confessed that he had declined a visit to Washington DC, an invitation extending from none other than United States President Donald Trump, choosing instead to set foot on the hallowed ground of Lord Jagannath.
Emphasizing the emotion that drove his decision, Modi told the cheering audience, "Just a couple of days ago, while attending the G7 Summit in Canada, I received a telephone call from President Trump, extending an invitation to visit Washington. But I told him, 'I have to go to the sacred land of Mahaprabhu Jagannath,' and here I am, standing amidst you." The crowd erupted in deafening applause.
Invoking the divine atmosphere, Modi welcomed the crowd with a traditional "Jai Jagannath" and a heartfelt "Juhar," in the local Odia language. The Prime Minister considered June 20 a "special day," a fusion of the completion of one year of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Odisha, and the build-up to the annual Ratha Yatra of Lord Jagannath - a festival symbolizing the state's spiritual heartbeat.
He took the opportunity to laud Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and his team for their hard work in guiding Odisha towards a new era of growth and good governance, expressing, "This one year is dedicated to the faith and trust reposed by the people in our governance and our vision for a developed Odisha."
Remarking on the importance of Odisha's spiritual heritage, he pointed out the unique position Odisha holds as the center of Mahaprabhu Jagannath. This decision to visit Odisha, despite a presidential invitation, demonstrates the depth of Modi's devotion to this Spiritual Icon.
In stark contrast to the previous Congress and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) regimes, Modi accused both parties of perpetuating corruption and stifling Odisha’s development for decades. Referencing the progress made in other northeastern states, Modi promised, "The same transformation will happen in Odisha."
Highlighting welfare achievements, Modi showcased initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and Gopabandhu Yojana, benefiting lakhs of families. He announced that over 33 lakh senior citizens in Odisha would now receive Rs 5 lakh health coverage under the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana. Assuring Odisha’s vast Odia diaspora in Surat, Gujarat, he promised equal access to central schemes. He also unveiled a Rs 1.5 lakh crore investment push to make Odisha a petroleum and petrochemical hub, laying the foundation for 'Odisha Vision 2036' - a developmental blueprint for the state's centenary.
Concluding his address, Modi echoed his commitment to Odisha's progress, declaring, "Jai Jagannath!" reinforcing the pivotal role that the spiritual heart of Odisha holds in Modi's vision for the country.
[1] The choice to visit Odisha, despite a presidential invitation, reflects Modi's personal devotion to Mahaprabhu Jagannath.[2] The spiritual significance of Odisha allured Modi to visit this holy land.[4] Modi's visit to Odisha during Ratha Yatra highlights the importance of the festival in the state's cultural heritage.
[1] Modi's decision to forgo a meeting with President Trump to visit Odisha demonstrates his personal devotion to Mahaprabhu Jagannath.[2] The spiritual significance of Odisha drew Modi to set foot on the hallowed ground of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, as evidenced by his choice to visit during the G7 Summit.[4] Modi's visit to Odisha during the Ratha Yatra underscores the festival's importance in the state's cultural heritage.
