PM cites three Cs as common factors between India and Guyana-Culture, Cuisine, and Cricket
From shared history of fighting colonial rule to the Cricket frenzy in both nations were also some highlights of the conversations.
PM Modi cites three Cs as common factors between India and Guyana-Culture, Cuisine, and Cricket
Honorable Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on an official trip to Guyana in the Caribbean to co-chair the second India-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit. While addressing the audience in Georgetown, he cited that the three Cs to bind the two countries of India and Guyana are Culture, Cuisine, and Cricket. From shared history of fighting colonial rule to the Cricket frenzy in both nations were also some highlights of the conversations.
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In his exact words, he said, “ We (the countries) see diversity as something to be celebrated, and not to be accommodated. Our countries are showing how cultural diversity is our strength.”
The PM has a point when he speaks of the similarities between cuisines of both countries. What makes the Caribbean an exquisite place apart from beaches, and people is that it is a melting pot of various cultures. And Indian culture has certainly left its indelible mark on the region. Wondering how? The history says that the British Government had sent Bonded labour from India to the Caribbean land to work on the sugar plantations. The Indian labour also carried their own cooking techniques and reciepes. Thus began the delectable journey of fusion cuisine.
From Rotis to curries to stews to even desserts, the common factors between two cuisines are very telling. However, the differences in preparations is what brings the individuality of the Land of Many Waters. The usage of oil instead of ghee is one big distinction. This tradition fell in place as Ghee as an ingredient was expensive and rare in earlier days in the islands. The rotis, which are usually made of wheat flour in India, are made of split peas there and are usually stuffed with coconut. Also, Rotis are the main course for lunch or dinner in India, but there Rotis are an appetizer or eaten for breakfast with stew. Another aspect that sets the two cuisines apart is usage of spices. It’s way lighter and uncomplicated than the Indian myriad of spices. Gulab Jamun and Jalebis also have their Caribbean cousins, albeit, in different shapes and crunchier.
Indian PM, the only Indian state head to have visited Guyana in the past five decades, was also conferred with the highest national award in Guyana -- the 'Order of Excellence’. He humbly thanked the country as well as the 3 lakh-strong Indo-Guyanese community and their contributions to the development of Guyana.’ He also commended the community’s efforts to preserve the Indian Culture and traditions.
