Washington, October 3 (Daily Kiran) : Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has hailed Indian-Americans as a “living bridge” between India and the United States. Speaking in Chicago, he urged them to remain committed to their adopted country while also cherishing their roots in India.
During an address to the Indian community following a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, Goyal noted that their contributions have significantly strengthened ties between the two nations. “Each of you serves as a vibrant link between America and India. You are all ambassadors of India in the U.S.,” he stated.
He expressed gratitude for the contributions of Indian-Americans and encouraged them to stay loyal to the country that has provided them with opportunities and prosperity. “Be loyal to it, be honest, and work hard for your country. But always keep a little space in your heart for your motherland,” he added.
Goyal’s remarks came during his one-day visit to Chicago, where he toured sites associated with two of India’s most renowned figures, Mahatma Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda. On Gandhi Jayanti, he paid homage at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Sculpture in Skokie, Illinois.
In a post on X, Goyal reflected on Gandhi’s timeless principles of non-violence, simplicity, and truth, which have been deeply woven into India’s civilizational thought. He emphasized that these ideals continue to guide humanity across generations.
While addressing the community, Goyal highlighted Gandhi’s emphasis on non-violence, equality, and the welfare of marginalized groups. He also discussed the impact of Gandhi’s thoughts on American society. “The statue here in Chicago sends a profound message that, despite the thousands of miles separating India from here, his ideas live on in all of you,” he remarked.
Goyal reassured overseas Indians of India’s unwavering support, stating that New Delhi always pays attention whenever its citizens face crises abroad. Citing recent challenges in Yemen and Ukraine, he said, “We stand with you in your homeland. We care for you, and you will always have our support. Your country, your motherland will always be with you, your families, and your children.”
Earlier, Goyal visited Fullerton Hall at the Art Institute of Chicago, a site linked to Swami Vivekananda’s historic speech at the 1893 World’s Parliament of Religions. He noted, “In that very place where Swami Vivekananda received thunderous applause, he presented India’s ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ to the world on September 11, 1893.”
He concluded by stating that Vivekananda’s message of universal brotherhood and spiritual wisdom continues to guide people. Later, he paid tribute to Vivekananda at the Indian Consulate in Chicago.
In his address, Goyal highlighted how Vivekananda’s teachings inspire Indians at home and abroad. He described Vivekananda as a young Indian who proudly represented his heritage, traditions, and culture in America, using the Chicago platform to discuss Hinduism and the unity of different religions.
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