The upcoming community reception for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is generating immense excitement among both the Indian diaspora and Americans nationwide, with interest far surpassing the capacity of the New York venue, according to event organizers. Avinash Gupta, President of the tri-state chapter of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), expressed the high enthusiasm for the event scheduled on September 22. “The level of enthusiasm to see the Prime Minister and hear his address is remarkable,” Gupta stated.
Gupta, one of the event’s organizers, revealed that over 25,000 ticket requests have been received from individuals across 42 states. With the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum accommodating only 18,000, efforts are underway to expand the venue's capacity by introducing temporary seating in the play area, Gupta explained.
The event’s website indicates that registration will remain open until noon on September 1, with passes distributed via a lottery system. For those unable to attend, the reception will be broadcast live on large screens at Times Square and other locations such as Edison, New Jersey. Approximately 560 organizations are co-sponsoring the event. Prime Minister Modi will be in New York for the UN summits and is scheduled to address the General Assembly on September 26.
Organized by the Indo-American Community of USA (IACU), which operates under the motto “Modi and US, Progress Together,” the event aims to celebrate the achievements of the Indian diaspora and highlight the strengthening relationship between the US and India. Gupta noted that cultural programs showcasing the Indian culture, heritage, and diversity will precede Modi’s anticipated noon appearance (9:30 p.m. IST).
The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, located in Uniondale on Long Island, about 50 kilometers from Manhattan, will host the event. Gupta mentioned that transportation arrangements, including buses from New York, Washington, and Boston, are being organized for attendees. Unlike the previous “Howdy Modi” event in 2019 in Houston, where then-President Donald Trump was a notable guest, no US politicians are expected to participate this time, as the US elections are just five weeks away. PM Modi’s last significant US appearance was on International Yoga Day in June of the previous year, when he led a mass yoga session at the United Nations.
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