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By:

Akhilesh Sinha

25 June 2025 at 2:53:54 pm

India's multi-align diplomacy triumphs

New Delhi: West Asia has transformed into a battlefield rained by fireballs. Seas or land, everywhere echoes the roar of cataclysmic explosions, flickering flames, and swirling smoke clouds. et amid such adversity, Indian ships boldly waving the Tricolour navigate the strait undeterred, entering the Arabian Sea. More remarkably, Iran has sealed its airspace to global flights but opened it for the safe evacuation of Indians.   This scene evokes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's memorable 2014...

India's multi-align diplomacy triumphs

New Delhi: West Asia has transformed into a battlefield rained by fireballs. Seas or land, everywhere echoes the roar of cataclysmic explosions, flickering flames, and swirling smoke clouds. et amid such adversity, Indian ships boldly waving the Tricolour navigate the strait undeterred, entering the Arabian Sea. More remarkably, Iran has sealed its airspace to global flights but opened it for the safe evacuation of Indians.   This scene evokes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's memorable 2014 interview. He stated that "there was a time when we counted waves from the shore; now the time has come to take the helm and plunge into the ocean ourselves."   In a world racing toward conflict, Modi has proven India's foreign policy ranks among the world's finest. Guided by 'Nation First' and prioritising Indian safety and interests, it steadfastly embodies  'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' , the world as one family.   Policy Shines Modi's foreign policy shines with such clarity and patience that even as war flames engulf West Asian nations, Indians studying and working there return home safe. In just 13 days, nearly 100,000 were evacuated from Gulf war zones, mostly by air, some via Armenia by road. PM Modi talked with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian to secure Iran's airspace for the safe evacuation of Indians, a privilege denied to any other nation. Additionally, clearance was granted for Indian ships carrying crude oil and LPG to pass safely through the Hormuz Strait. No other country's vessels are navigating these waters, except for those of Iran's ally, China. The same strategy worked in the Ukraine-Russia war: talks with both presidents ensured safe corridors, repatriating over 23,000 students and businessmen. Iran, Israel, or America, all know India deems terrorism or war unjustifiable at any cost. PM Modi amplified anti-terror campaigns from UN to global platforms, earning open support from many nations.   Global Powerhouse Bolstered by robust foreign policy and economic foresight, India emerges as a global powerhouse, undeterred by tariff hurdles. Modi's adept diplomacy yields notable successes. Contrast this with Nehru's era: wedded to Non-Aligned Movement, he watched NAM member China seize vast Ladakh territory in war. Today, Modi's government signals clearly, India honors friends, spares no foes. Abandoning non-alignment, it embraces multi-alignment: respecting sovereignties while prioritizing human welfare and progress. The world shifts from unipolar or bipolar to multipolar dynamics.   Modi's policy hallmark is that India seal defense deals like the S-400 and others with Russia yet sustains US friendship. America bestows Legion of Merit; Russia, its highest civilian honor, Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. India nurtures ties with Israel, Palestine, Iran via bilateral talks. Saudi Arabia stands shoulder-to-shoulder across fronts; UAE trade exceeds $80 billion. UN's top environment award, UNEP Champions of the Earth, graces India, unlike past when foreign nations campaigned against us on ecological pretexts.   This policy's triumph roots in economic empowerment. India now ranks the world's fourth-largest economy, poised for third in 1-2 years. The 2000s dubbed it 'fragile'; then-PM economist Dr. Manmohan Singh led. Yet  'Modinomics'  prevailed. As COVID crippled supply chains, recession loomed, inflation soared and growth plunged in developed countries,  Modinomics  made India the 'bright star.' Inflation stayed controlled, growth above 6.2 per cent. IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas praised it, advising the world to learn from India.

Egypt Unveiled: Where Ancient Majesty Meets Modern Charm!

History, culture, flavour and adventure—every journey through Egypt is a tapestry of wonders.

Egypt has always stirred curiosity in every traveller’s heart. Its ancient civilisation, iconic monuments and rich cultural heritage have drawn explorers for centuries. Standing before the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx—marvels among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—you instantly feel the weight of history. Built as monumental resting places for pharaohs, these pyramids, along with the remarkable sites of Abu Simbel, Thebes and the Valley of the Kings, reflect the grandeur of a civilisation far ahead of its time. The story of King Tutankhamun, whose tomb was found in 1922, continues to fascinate the world, fuelled by the legend of the “Curse of the Pharaohs”.


Egyptian mythology adds a magical layer to this land. We’ve all read about its powerful gods and goddesses—Ra, the sun god; Osiris, ruler of the afterlife; Isis, the divine mother; Horus, protector of the skies; Anubis, guardian of mummification; and Hathor, goddess of love and dance. Along with Thoth, Bastet and Amon, these deities shaped the beliefs and rituals that still echo through Egypt’s temples.


Flowing through this ancient land is Egypt’s lifeline—the Nile River. For thousands of years, it has nurtured agriculture, shaped settlements and powered daily life. Along the eastern edge lies the Red Sea, with its colourful coral reefs, vibrant fish and underwater beauty that attracts divers from around the world. Cairo, bustling and energetic, blends ancient monuments with modern culture, while the new administrative capital marks Egypt’s bold step into the future.


The culinary flavours of Egypt add another layer to its charm. From crispy falafel and the beloved koshary—a hearty mix of rice, pasta and lentils—to mulukhiyah, kebabs and kofta, Egyptian cuisine is comforting and soulful. Sweet lovers will enjoy baklava and umm ali, desserts that offer warm hospitality in every bite.


This journey holds a special place in my heart—one of the most memorable experiences of my 25-year tourism career. And today, I’m delighted to take you along.


Our adventure began at Cairo International Airport, where a smiling representative greeted us and escorted us to our hotel. The next morning, our Cairo City Tour began with an English-speaking Egyptologist who guided us through the Pyramids of Giza. Standing before the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinos felt surreal, and the mighty Sphinx, with its silent gaze, added to the wonder. At the Egyptian Museum, we admired statues, royal jewellery and timeless treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb—each piece showcasing the brilliance of ancient craftsmanship.


In the evening, the Nile welcomed us with its gentle breeze. Our dinner cruise offered delicious food, lively belly dancing, captivating folklore performances and a magical Sound and Light Show by the pyramids—an unforgettable moment when history came alive.


The next morning, we flew to Aswan, where the famous High Dam stood tall as a modern engineering marvel that tamed the Nile’s floods. We then visited the Unfinished Obelisk, revealing the skill of ancient stonemasons. After checking into our hotel, we spent the evening at the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to Goddess Isis and beautifully lit during the Sound and Light Show.


At dawn, carrying breakfast boxes, we set out for Abu Simbel. Standing before the colossal rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari was awe-inspiring. Their perfect alignment with the sun twice a year showcases ancient brilliance. Returning to Aswan, we boarded our luxurious Nile cruise, a highlight for its warm hospitality, delicious meals and cultural performances.


The next day, we sailed and stopped at the Kom Ombo Temple, which is uniquely dedicated to Sobek and Horus. We then continued to Edfu to explore the Temple of Horus—the best-preserved temple in Egypt, rich with carvings and mythology. After lunch on board, we sailed to Luxor and visited the beautifully lit Luxor Temple before retiring for the night.


The next morning, we explored Luxor’s West Bank. The Valley of the Kings left us spellbound with its intricately painted royal tombs. The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, with its grand terraces, honoured Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh. We also admired the towering Colossi of Memnon, silent guardians of ancient Thebes.


Later, we travelled to Hurghada in a comfortable luxury bus. Here, the Red Sea offered a completely different kind of beauty. Guests enjoyed swimming, diving and snorkelling in its crystal-clear waters. A glass-bottom boat and submarine ride revealed vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life—an underwater masterpiece.


With hearts full and memories overflowing, we headed to Hurghada Airport for our flight to Mumbai, carrying with us the warmth, wonder and magic of Egypt—a land where history breathes and beauty endures.


Let’s explore more together, so stay tuned!

 

(The writer is a tourism professional and runs a company, Global Voyages. She could be contacted at goglobalvoyages@gmail.com. Views personal.)

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