French journalist and author François Gautier on Friday credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the wave of nationalism prevailing in the country.
Speaking to CNN News 18's Zakka Jacob at the News18 Rising Bharat Summit 2026 on the theme, 'Finding Bharat: Life, Love & India', Gautier said, "As Westerners, we are shocked to see how Indians have become more proud of themselves. Thanks to Mr Narendra Modi, there's a wave of nationalism in India."
The same sentiment was also expressed by global spiritual leader and author Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, who described her journey to India as one from 'Hollywood to Himalayas'.
Speaking about the idea of India in the eyes of those who have come from different countries and have settled here, Saraswati said she grew up in Los Angeles and came to India 30 years ago.
"I was not on any conscious spiritual path or journey. I came thinking its going to be an adventure in the midst of my PhD programme. However, it was the power of Ma Ganga and Bharatiya Sanskriti that showed not only the truth of who I was but also showed me the life path to walk on. Now, I don't live in India, India lives inside me," said the spiritual leader.
Talking about the change she has seen in India ever since she landed in the country, Saraswati said, "The most important change I have seen is in the pride of being Indian."
"When I came to India 30 years ago, one of the message that I was trying to give, both in this country as well as to NRIs around the world, was to stay connected with one's roots and heritage.I used to espouse that your culture has the power to give everything you are looking for in life. But now, they don't need me to say it. Now, that sense of 'we are Indians' from the youth of this country living here and abroad is a phenomenal change," said Saraswati.
Rising Bharat 2026 is a global forum that reflects the confidence and capability driving India’s rise. Built around the theme Strength Within, the summit brings together leaders, policymakers, and industry voices to shape a future powered by India’s own resolve and ambition
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