Usha Vance Reflects on Family’s Memorable Visit to India, Bonds with PM Modi

Usha Vance, U.S. Second Lady, shared her family’s memorable visit to India, highlighting her children’s affectionate interactions with Prime Minister Modi and their awe at the country’s culture and history. Their experiences included visits to the Taj Mahal and traditional puppet shows. Vance underscored the personal and familial ties that enhance U.S.-India relations, expressing optimism for future connections between the two nations.

Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the United States, recently shared her experiences from a trip to India that she described as a “trip of a lifetime.” During her visit, she highlighted the special bond her children developed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom they affectionately viewed as a grandfather figure. Vance expressed gratitude for the warm welcome her family received while touring India, which included stops at iconic sites like the Taj Mahal and interactions with local culture, especially the Indian cuisine.

In a recent discussion at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum held in Washington, D.C., Vance reflected on how her children, having never visited India due to the pandemic and other factors, were in awe of the country. This was their first exposure to what they had only heard about from family stories. She described their reactions during their travels, sharing that they found the food “incredible” and were enchanted by the sights. Her description of the vibrant blue skies at sunrise over the Taj Mahal was particularly striking.

Vance recounted a touching moment when her children met PM Modi in Paris, where he gifted her five-year-old son a birthday present. This kindness solidified their admiration for him. Vance said her children were eager to embrace him when they visited his residence, exemplifying the strong connection they felt. The Prime Minister’s engagement with her children was not just a personal highlight but also served as a testament to the productive discussions he had with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.

A puppet show depicting elements from the Ramayana stood out during their trip, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of India. Her children are now attempting to recreate parts of the show back home, although she humorously noted how that endeavor is going. Each of her children had unique experiences; her eldest son, Ewan, was particularly fascinated by temple sculptures, while Vivek, her middle child, was delighted to see animals like elephants and peacocks. Her daughter, Mirabel, cherished a thrilling auto-rickshaw ride.

During a four-day official visit in April, the Vance family engaged in playful moments with Prime Minister Modi, who hosted them at his residence. The children interacted joyfully with him, even receiving peacock feathers as souvenirs of their visit. From exploring gardens to playing in an enclosed area under the supervision of the Secret Service, the children enjoyed a memorable time at the Prime Minister’s home.

Usha Vance emphasized the personal nature of U.S.-India relations, noting her family ties in both countries. She described this moment as one of “great opportunity” for strengthening the connections between the two nations. Vance mentioned how her childhood visits to India had shaped her views on the relationship, marking it as something she values deeply. Her statements came while addressing an audience that included notable figures from both Indian and U.S. communities, reflecting her commitment to fostering closer ties between the two nations.

Usha Vance’s reflections on her India visit reveal the personal and cultural connections that often define relationships between nations. Her children’s experiences, from forming bonds with Prime Minister Modi to exploring India, underscore the importance of these ties. Vance’s remarks at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum highlighted the potential for future growth and collaboration between the U.S. and India, driven by personal relationships and shared cultural experiences. These familial ties enhance diplomatic connections, framing a hopeful narrative for future collaboration between the two countries.

Original Source: www.financialexpress.com