Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a highly anticipated speech to the joint session of the US Congress on Thursday, June 22. The speech lasted nearly an hour and was attended by members of Congress as well as the Indian American community.
As PM Modi addressed the US Congress, there were 12 instances where members of Congress gave him standing ovations. Additionally, the Indian community members present in the gallery also rose to their feet twice, showing their appreciation for the Prime Minister's remarks.
At the conclusion of his speech, lawmakers and members of the Indian community applauded Prime Minister Modi and eagerly sought his autograph and took selfies with him. As they interacted with him, chants of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram' reverberated in the air, reflecting the enthusiasm and patriotic fervor of the audience.
During his speech, there were several noteworthy moments. Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the presence of Americans with Indian roots, specifically pointing at US Vice President Kamala Harris. He remarked, "There are many Americans with Indian roots sitting in our midst. There is one behind me, who has made history." This statement elicited laughter and applause from the assembly.
Further adding to the light-hearted atmosphere, PM Modi mentioned the "Samosa Caucus," an informal group of Indian-American lawmakers in the US Congress. He humorously said, "I am told that the Samosa Caucus is more the flavor of the House."
The term "Samosa Caucus" was coined by Congressman Krishnamoorthi to acknowledge the increasing number of Indian-American lawmakers in the US Congress.
Prime Minister Modi received multiple standing ovations throughout his speech, including when he advocated for the African Union to be granted full membership in the G20. He emphasized the importance of considering, caring, and showing concern for the Global South and asserted that giving the African Union a voice in the G20 is the way forward. This statement was met with a resounding applause from the audience.
