From Port of Spain to Patna: Modi’s Cultural Diplomacy Sets Political Tone Ahead of Bihar Elections

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Trinidad & Tobago wasn’t just about diplomacy and cultural exchange it carried an unmistakable undertone directed at voters back home. In the presence of a large Indian-origin diaspora, PM Modi subtly sent a message that resonated with the political landscape of Bihar. As the Bihar assembly elections draw closer, Modi’s reference to “Bihar ki Beti” Kamla Persad-Bissessar and his emphasis on Bihar’s heritage appear not only as a tribute to India’s cultural diaspora but also as a strategic nod to a crucial voter base. This move reflects the BJP’s growing efforts to blend international diplomacy with domestic political strategy. The timing of this cultural connect months before a high-stakes assembly election indicates the beginning of the BJP’s focused Bihar campaign, now strengthened by its alliance with Nitish Kumar.

Bihar’s Roots in the Caribbean: A Cultural Continuum

PM Modi’s remarks in Trinidad & Tobago held deep emotional value for the Indo-Caribbean community, particularly those with roots in Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Many of Trinidad & Tobago’s Indian-origin citizens are descendants of Girmitiyas – indentured labourers from British India brought to the Caribbean in the 19th century. Nearly 143,000 of them arrived in Trinidad between 1845 and 1917, with a large number hailing from Buxar, Bhojpur, and nearby regions of Bihar.

By referring to Trinidadian Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar as “Bihar ki Beti,” Modi rekindled a deep-rooted historical connection. He also presented her with a replica of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and holy water from the Saryu river and Mahakumbh, signifying the spiritual continuity of Indian heritage. His words celebrated the diaspora’s transition from colonial hardship to global leadership and reinforced India’s pride in the resilience and success of the Indian community abroad.

Significance of the 2025 Bihar Elections: BJP’s Eyes on the Prize

The 2025 Bihar assembly elections are crucial for the BJP, especially after the party’s commanding performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In the national polls, the BJP-led NDA, in alliance with Nitish Kumar’s JD(U), secured a sweeping victory in Bihar, winning 29 out of 40 seats. The RJD, led by Tejashwi Yadav, managed just 6 seats, marking a sharp decline and reflecting a weakening grip in its traditional strongholds.

With the assembly elections ahead, the BJP-JD(U) alliance is keen to replicate its Lok Sabha success. PM Modi’s reference to Bihar from foreign soil serves as an early reminder to voters of his commitment to the state and its cultural pride. His invocation of Bihar’s legacy in governance, education, and spirituality sets the stage for an emotionally charged campaign.

Crisis in RJD: Leadership Vacuum and Internal Strife

While the BJP-JD(U) alliance is solidifying its front, the RJD is grappling with multiple challenges. Party patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav is ailing and largely absent from active politics. Meanwhile, his elder son Tej Pratap Yadav has sparked controversy with a recent viral video showing erratic behavior, leading to embarrassment and speculation within the party ranks. Tejashwi Yadav, though more composed, is struggling to balance these internal conflicts and revive the party’s appeal among youth and rural voters.

These issues have left the RJD vulnerable at a time when the BJP is stepping up its campaign with renewed cultural and political narratives. Modi’s Trinidad speech, woven with symbolism and sentiment, is aimed at reinforcing pride in Bihar’s identity and contrasting it with the instability within the opposition.

Global Diplomacy Meets Local Strategy

PM Modi’s strategic use of his international platform to speak about Bihar’s contribution to the world and its rich legacy was no accident. His remarks reflect a consistent pattern of using overseas visits to strengthen domestic political messaging. In the past, Modi has made similar references to Punjab while visiting Canada and Gujarat during events in the UK.

In Trinidad & Tobago, his admiration for the descendants of Girmitiyas and their contributions signaled respect for India’s global image while indirectly appealing to voters back home. For Modi, foreign soil becomes an extension of India’s political canvas, and with elections ahead, every word spoken abroad echoes with purpose at home.

The Campaign Has Quietly Begun

As PM Modi’s words in Trinidad & Tobago reverberate across India, one thing is clear: the Bihar campaign is quietly but firmly underway. By celebrating the state’s heritage and leveraging global cultural connections, the BJP is crafting an emotional and political narrative that extends beyond traditional rallies.

Modi’s Message Marks the Start of BJP’s Bihar Push

With Nitish Kumar as an ally, a weakened RJD in disarray, and Modi’s strategic messaging resonating among the masses, the BJP is poised to mount a serious challenge for the 2025 Bihar assembly elections. From Port of Spain to Patna, the message is loud and clear: Bihar’s legacy is not just about the past, it’s a promise for the future  one that the BJP wants to lead.