New York:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a saffron jacket, got a full-house reception today at New York's Madison Square Garden, a venue that rock stars dream of packing with a sell-out audience. (
Rate PM's Speech Here)
He thanked the crowd of about 18,000 Indian Americans who constantly chanted his name, for the rousing welcome. "This kind of love has not been given to any Indian leader ever," he said and promised, "I will repay that loan by building the India of your dreams." (
Highlights of PM Modi's Speech)
In his over one-hour speech, the PM vowed to work tirelessly to make India a major power and renewed pledges to unlock its economic potential. (
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He sought the assistance of Indian Americans in doing so, hailing them for showing an example through their professional successes. To loud cheers, he announced an easing of visa rules for people of Indian origin. (
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Mr Modi - who won India's widest electoral victory in three decades earlier this year and referenced that win in his speech - fired back at critics who have urged him to launch quicker reforms as he recalled his humble background running a tea stall as a teenager.
"People ask for a big vision? Well, I got here by selling tea," Mr Modi, speaking in Hindi and extempore, said.
"I'm a very modest man, and that's why I plan to do big things for modest people," he said, listing promises that include building more toilets and cleaning the river Ganga. (
PM Modi's Dream: A House for Every Indian by 2022)
In a touch inspired by US political conventions, balloons fell as Mr Modi finished his speech - as he had begun - with "Bharat Mata ki Jai, (Long Live Mother India)." (
Top 10 Quotes from PM's Speech)
He spoke from a slowly revolving stage in the storied arena that is home to the New York Knicks basketball team. Billy Joel will perform there later this week. More than 30 US members of Congress took part in the reception that warmed up with Bollywood and traditional dances.
Indian-American activists have been eager to demonstrate support for Mr Modi, who was refused a visa by the United States in 2005 over communal riots that left more than 1,000 people dead in Gujarat in 2002, during his first term as Chief Minister.
Since he emerged as the front-runner for the country's top job, he has been courted by world leaders including the United States.
US President Barack Obama plans a two-day welcome for Mr Modi starting with a dinner on Monday.