PM Narendra Modi takes dig at secularists as Irish kids recite shlokas

“The Irish children were reciting shlokas in Sanskrit and  singing welcome songs. It did not seem to me that they were just tutored. They were able to express the feelings of the words,” the Prime Minister said during his short speech.

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“I congratulate their teachers. It’s a matter of happiness that we can do it in Ireland. But had it been done in India, then questions would have been raised on secularism,” he said.

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“Overwhelmed by the community programme in Dublin. Recital of Shlokas in Sanskrit by children was very touching. Simply mesmerising! Great to see these children recite in Sanskrit,” Modi tweeted.

Asserting that India was among the top countries witnessing rapid economic growth, Modi said the whole world is
talking about India and even people are thinking “who knows, 21st century can be India’s”.

The Prime Minister said the World Bank, IMF and all rating agencies are quite upbeat about India. If there is someone powerful in BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China and South Africa) grouping, it was India, Modi said adding that unlike earlier years when ‘I’ which stood for India was hanging and there was an apprehension that it will
be replaced by Indonesia.

Modi also said that there will be “no trace” of poverty in India if it could sustain the current momentum of
development in the next 30 years.

Showcasing India’s potential and rapid economic growth under his government, Modi said 65 per cent population of
India is under 35 and they are real assets to take the country to newer heights.

The Prime Minister began his address by saying, “want to apologise as I think I should’ve given you all more time” as the trip is a short one.

“One passes over Ireland every time one flies to New York. Your love has brought me here this time,” said Modi. Modi, who is the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Ireland in 59 years, told the crowd that they will not have to wait for that long for next visit by an Indian Prime Minister.

Talking about initiatives of his government, Modi said “today Indians across the globe can live holding their heads high and see eye-to-eye with everyone as equals.”

He said there are so many things which are common between India and Ireland and both the countries can expand
cooperation in various areas.

In 2016, Ireland will celebrate 100 years of their independence movement. India too has battled colonialism, Modi
said.

“I think India should participate in the celebrations,” the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister said he had “detailed discussions” with his Irish counterpart Enda Kenny and both agreed on so many issues.

Talking about yoga, Modi said it has received recognition globally.