PM Modi extends festival greetings to Congress leader Sam Pitroda

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended festival greetings to Sam Pitroda, the chief of the Indian Overseas Congress, in a gesture that underscores the personal rapport between the two leaders despite their differing political affiliations.

Pitroda, who has maintained a public profile as a prominent voice in overseas Indian affairs, acknowledged the warm outreach from Modi. Speaking on the exchange, Pitroda noted that he and his wife had met the Prime Minister previously and found him to be gracious and welcoming during those interactions.

The exchange of festival wishes is not uncommon among India's political leadership, with many senior figures using such occasions to maintain cordial relations across party lines. Modi's gesture towards Pitroda, who is associated with the Congress party, reflects the practice of extending courtesies during significant cultural and religious occasions.

Pitroda, who has represented the interests of the Indian diaspora through his work with the overseas wing of the Congress, has been involved in highlighting issues pertinent to non-resident Indians and overseas Indian citizens. The personal connection between the two leaders highlights how institutional and party differences do not always preclude civil relations among India's political establishment.