Haven't Taken Even a 15-Minute Break, Says PM Modi to Indians in America

The PM, wearing a saffron-coloured jacket, spoke to the crowd in Hindi, drawing loud cheers when he announced that those with PIO cards (Person of Indian Origin) will get lifetime visas. He also said American tourists to India will get visas on arrival. (Lifetime Visas for PIO Card-Holders, Announces PM Narendra Modi in New York)

"I have not taken a break even for 15 minutes since taking office," said the PM in his lengthy speech.  He thanked Indians in America for their support in the high-adrenalin campaign that led to his massive victory in the national election. (Highlights of PM Modi's Speech)

You have heard of "Bees Saal Baad (after 20 years)" he said, referring to a popular film. "This was tees saal baad (after 30 years)," he told the delighted audience, referencing the fact that his party won the strongest mandate in three decades. (Top 10 Quotes from PM's Speech)

"When 125 crore people have given their blessings, it's the blessing of God," he said about his huge mandate. (Rate PM's Speech Here)

Before the PM's arrival, a series of dance troupes performed, mainly to Bollywood songs. The event has cost 1.5 million dollars - the funds were raised by different groups of NRIs and Indian Americans.

Event organiser, the Indian-American Community Foundation, is billing the event as one of the largest receptions ever held for a foreign head of state in the US.

The reception today also reflects the growing clout of the 2.8 million Indian-Americans, one of the wealthiest diaspora communities in the US.

On Monday and Tuesday, President Barack Obama will host the PM at the White House.

The PM was shunned for years by the US, which denied him a visa in 2005 for his alleged role in the 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 with a high-glitz campaign, he has been courted by world leaders.