Chants of 'Modi-Modi', and 'Vande Mataram' echoed in Cairo when Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Ritz Carlton hotel to interact with the Indian community. Modi, who began his maiden visit to Egypt on Saturday met members of the Indian diaspora and the Bohra community. He is set to visit Cairo's historic Al-Hakim Mosque on Sunday.
The Mosque was renovated with assistance from the Dawoodi Bohra community.
Modi will also visit the Heliopolis War Cemetery to pay respects to the Indian troops who gave their lives in the ultimate act of valour for Egypt during World War-1.
The Bohra community in India actually originated from the Fatima dynasty and have renovated the mosque from the 1970s onwards.
"I have been living in Egypt for the last 27 years and belong to the Bohra community. Meeting PM Modi today came as a unique experience. The PM is closely associated with our community. I feel proud that our PM came all the way here to meet us," a member of the Indian diaspora told ANI.
Modi also met the Indian diaspora in Egypt, who hailed him as India's hero. Modi is the first PM to undertake a bilateral visit to Egypt in 26 years. He was given a grand welcome by the Indian community at Ritz Carlton hotel.
You are India's hero, said a member of the Indian diaspora to Modi. Efforts by every Indian, including those living overseas, have contributed to the country's success, said Modi while responding to the member.
“Entire India is everyone's hero. The people of the country work hard and the nation progresses,” said the PM.
“This is a result of your hard work. Your devotion is paying off,” he added.
"Deeply moved by the warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Egypt. Their support and affection truly embody the timeless bonds of our nations. Also noteworthy was people from Egypt wearing Indian dresses. Truly, a celebration of our shared cultural linkages," Modi tweeted.
Modi was welcomed by an Egyptian woman, Jena, dressed in a saree, by singing the popular Bollywood song 'Yeh Dosti Hum Nahi Chhodenge' from the movie 'Sholay'.
"Nobody will be able to tell whether you are a daughter of Egypt or a daughter of India," Prime Minister Modi told Jena.
The Bohra community in India actually originated from the Fatima dynasty and they have renovated the mosque from the 1970s onwards.
(With PTI inputs)