Future is bright, say Indian expats inspired by Modi

Dubai - A little past 10am, the PM made his entry accompanied by jubilant chants of 'Vande Mataram' and 'Modi, Modi'.

Early on Sunday morning, the Dubai Opera stood wrapped in the morning chill. The iconic landmark in the heart of Dubai that had hosted the likes of Placido Domingo, Sir Bryn Terfel and Sara Baras, looked all set to roll the red carpet for a unique guest -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is known to woo crowds with his oratorical skills.

Hundreds of Indians started trickling to the venue as early as 7am.

The excitement was palpable, as many sporting wide smiles and bright-coloured attires stood in the queue to gain entry to the opera where Modi was to address a 1,700-strong gathering.

Bhagvan Gurnani, a long-time Dubai resident, appeared wearing an 'I love Modi' banner across his suit. "He is a man I admire. He has exceptional courage to take on anything."

It was a special day for the 3.5 million Indian expatriates who have made UAE their second home as their prime minister announced the construction of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised that we would have a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi in 2015 ... Today, he has kept that promise. For now, I think the future is bright," said Indian businessman from Sharjah Pushaparaj Athavanad.

Before 8am, the opera was almost packed. Musicians entertained the gathering and a few video presentations showcasing India's culture and soft power as well UAE-India ties were aired to keep the audience entertained.

A little past 10am, the prime minister made his entry accompanied by jubilant chants of 'Vande Mataram' (hymn to the motherland) and 'Modi, Modi'.

The event, which coincided with the ground-breaking ceremony of the Hindu temple at Al Rahba, Abu Dhabi, was a historic moment, according to Indian residents who attended the event.

The event was predominantly attended by members of the Indian business communities living in the UAE, along with a few Emiratis.

Cheers and chants laced Modi's 16-minute long speech with some ecstatic audience screaming 'we love you' from their seats.

Radhakrishnan Nair, another businessman in Sharjah, said: "I think that the future of India is bright. The temple has been a long-time wish of Indian residents living in the UAE. It's wonderful that they've finally opened up the doors. It is truly fantastic that this has happened. We're very proud ... this is a celebration for us."

Bindu Suresh Chettur, senior lawyer and president of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC) Dubai, said: "The PM's speech was definitely very inspiring, and I think the opening of the temple in Abu Dhabi was a historic moment ... especially for something in this part of the world. It is inspiring to see this dream become reality, and I am also eagerly waiting for 2020."

dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai