Canadian Prime Minister gains fans in Tamil Nadu with Pongal greeting

“Over the next few days, Tamilians living in Canada and around the world will gather with their loved ones to celebrate Thai Pongal,” he further goes on to say, “In 2016, the House of Commons voted unanimously to recognise every January as Tamil Heritage Month. I encourage everybody to reflect on the strong heritage of Canada’s Tamil community. 

Our nation is stronger and richer because of Tamil-Canadians,” He also spoke about how this year also marks Canada’s 150th anniversary and said, “We should seize every opportunity to celebrate the many cultures, languages and beliefs that make our country such a wonderful place to live in.” He ended the speech by saying Iniya pongal nalvazhthukkal (Wishing you a ‘Happy Pongal’). 

Moments after the video released, people from across the world started sharing it on social media. The video started trending in countries with a significant Tamil diaspora. One of the more popular world leaders, Justin Trudeau is considered by many on social media as being the last hope for democracy after Barack Obama steps down as President at the White House. Trudeau is slated to become the next favourite world leader in 2017. 

The Canadian politician has always embraced Indian culture and has already shown his bhangra skills. With his Pongal wishes in Tamil, he has only earned more fans. 

“A great leader for Canada. Such a great man who recognises a very small Tamil community from India in this country and all over the world,” said S Ramya, an Indian residing in Canada. Sonia Mathew, a Chennai girl living in Canada says, “The gesture is heart-warming and a perfect opportunity to bring the community together. Also, a lot of media attention is given to the festival and it feels good to be part of the celebration. 

“In India, there is a lot of talk about Tamil identity after the ban on jallikattu. Many people are voicing their concern over the ban and the decision to make Pongal an ‘optional holiday’, it is nice to see that Canada has embraced the Tamil culture,” says Dinesh B, an IT employee from the city.