Director of National Intelligence of the United States, Tulsigabbard is currently on a visit to India. On Monday, during her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, PM Modi presented her with the sacred water of Mahakumbh, while Tulsigabbard gifted him a Tulsi garland in return. These extraordinary gifts have become a talking point, sparking curiosity about what hidden messages lie within their 'Gift Politics'.
PM Modi's Gift of Ganga Water to Tulsigabbard
Before offering the Ganga water, PM Modi spoke about the significance of the Mahakumbh and the sacredness of Ganga water. He explained, 'The recent Mahakumbh, held at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, is of great importance. 66 crore people took a holy dip during this grand event, making the water uniquely sacred.' Tulsigabbard graciously accepted this precious gift, expressing her gratitude to PM Modi.
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Watch the Highlights: PM Modi Meets Tulsigabbard
Tulsigabbard's Gift of the Tulsi Garland to PM Modi
US Intelligence Chief Tulsigabbard offered PM Modi a Tulsi garland, saying, 'This garland is from Tulsi ji, especially for you.' Cherishing the gesture, PM Modi expressed his joy. Following this exchange, the two leaders discussed advancements in India's comprehensive strategic partnership with the USA, counter-terrorism, and bolstering maritime and cyber security cooperation.
The Hidden Message Behind 'Gift Politics'
In Hinduism, the Mahakumbh, Ganga water, and the Tulsi garland are immensely revered. The 'Gift Politics' between Modi and Tulsigabbard highlights the symbolic Hindu elements in Indo-American relations, revealing profound implications. Through the presentation of sacred water, PM Modi emphasized the sanctity of Mahakumbh and dispelled doubts over the purity of local traditions. This aligns with his previous acts, like gifting Ganga water to the Prime Minister of Mauritius.
Video Highlights: PM Modi Gifts Sacred Mahakumbh Water to Tulsigabbard, Receives Tulsi Garland in Return
Tulsigabbard's open devotion to Hinduism, Lord Krishna, and the Bhagavad Gita is well known. Her presence in India vividly exhibited this. In a revealing ANI interview, she shared how the teachings of Lord Krishna inspired and empowered her.
By gifting the Ganga water to US Intelligence Chief Tulsigabbard, PM Modi not only introduced Hindu traditions globally but also symbolized Hindu diplomacy. This exchange is a testament to mutual respect and serves as a bridge between Indo-American Hindu communities. Despite Tulsigabard's non-Indian origin, her gift of the Tulsi garland to PM Modi accentuates how her dedication to Hinduism could deepen Indo-American ties.
