New Delhi: The United States Director of National Intelligence (DNI), Tulsi Gabbard, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi today. During the meeting, PM Modi presented her with a kalash (sacred pot) filled with water from the recently concluded Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
Speaking about the significance of the event, PM Modi said, “The Maha Kumbh took place at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. It was a 45-day-long sacred period of immense importance. Around 66 crore (660 million) people participated in the pilgrimage and took a holy dip. I was also present there. This kalash contains water from that sacred time.”
In return, the US intelligence chief gifted PM Modi a Tulsi (holy basil) garland.
Tulsi Gabbard on Her Faith and the Bhagavad Gita
Tulsi Gabbard, who follows Hinduism, expressed her deep connection with the Bhagavad Gita. Speaking to news agency ANI, she said, “I often draw strength and guidance from Lord Krishna’s teachings in the Bhagavad Gita, in both good and challenging times.”
Key Meeting with Defense Minister Rajnath Singh
Earlier in the day, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also held an important meeting with Tulsi Gabbard. This interaction followed the recent meeting between PM Modi and US President Donald Trump. In a joint statement, both sides reaffirmed the growing strength of the bilateral defense partnership between India and the United States.
During the discussions, Rajnath Singh and Tulsi Gabbard emphasized that strategic security cooperation remains a crucial pillar of the India-US global partnership. The two leaders discussed military exercises, strategic collaboration, and potential opportunities for defense cooperation.
Expressing gratitude, Rajnath Singh appreciated Tulsi Gabbard’s deep respect and admiration for Indian culture and heritage. He stated that such sentiments further strengthen the bonds of friendship between India and the United States.