Port of Spain, Trinidad | 2nd July 2025
In a significant display of solidarity and cultural pride, Satya Anand Ashram of Aranguez and Bhakti TV have extended a heartfelt Swāgatam to the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on the occasion of his official visit to Trinidad and Tobago.
Prime Minister Modi, hailed as a transformative leader of the world’s largest democracy and now the fourth-largest economy, is visiting the Caribbean nation at a time when Indo-Trinidadian ties—culturally, religiously, and economically—continue to deepen.
In a public statement issued by Pundit Satyanand Maharaj, Spiritual Head of Satya Anand Ashram and Managing Director of Bhakti TV, he emphasized the historic and spiritual connection between Trinidad and India. “Our religious navel string is tied to the Indian subcontinent,” he said, referencing the strong presence of Hinduism and the East Indian population in Trinidad and Tobago.
India-Trinidad Trade & Diplomacy
India’s bilateral trade with Trinidad and Tobago amounts to approximately USD 400 million annually, with the balance of trade favoring Trinidad. Prime Minister Modi’s visit is expected to strengthen economic cooperation and cultural diplomacy.
“This visit augurs well for the economy of Trinidad and Tobago,” Pundit Maharaj stated, noting that former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley had also recently led a delegation to India without any religious opposition, underlining a precedent of diplomatic engagement.
Response to Criticism
Addressing concerns raised by some Muslim religious groups regarding Prime Minister Modi’s domestic policies in India, Pundit Maharaj pointed out that India’s Supreme Court has cleared Mr. Modi of all such allegations. “It is concerning that these groups express selective outrage while remaining silent on the persecution of Hindus in countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh, where forced conversions and attacks on Hindu minorities continue unabated,” he said.
He also questioned the silence of critics on recent terrorist attacks targeting Hindus in Pahalgam, allegedly perpetrated by Pakistani-trained militants.
Furthermore, Pundit Maharaj raised concerns about perceived political affiliations of religious leadership, stating, “Like the Maha Sabha, it has long been observed that ASJA’s leadership is closely aligned with the PNM. A former ASJA president even accepted the Trinity Cross—an award with overt Christian symbolism—without protest.”
Celebrating Dharmic Pride
Drawing parallels to the unwavering faith of Lord Hanuman in the Ramayana, Pundit Maharaj described Prime Minister Modi as a modern embodiment of courage and conviction in Sanatan Dharma.
“In a world where Hindus are often expected to suppress their faith to appear secular, Modiji stands firm—unapologetic and proud. He is proof that one can be deeply spiritual and modern, nationalistic yet inclusive,” he said.
Call for National Recognition
In recognition of his impact as a global statesman and proponent of peace and interfaith dialogue, Pundit Maharaj suggested that Prime Minister Modi be conferred the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT) — the nation’s highest civilian honour.
“Modiji is more than a political figure; he is a beacon of hope for humanity,” he concluded.
Namaste Modiji.
Issued by:
Pundit Satyanand Maharaj
Spiritual Head, Satya Anand Ashram
Managing Director, Bhakti TV
Date: Wednesday, 2nd July 2025
Panditji
Nice piece. Dhanyavaad.