What is the link between PM Modi and China's Xi Jinping? This 7th-century monk

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a podcast with Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, shared an interesting anecdote highlighting a historical bond between his hometown, Vadnagar, and Chinese President Xi Jinping's village. The incident dates back to 2014, shortly after PM Modi assumed office.

“When I became the PM in 2014, leaders from across the world made courtesy calls,” PM Modi recounted. “Chinese President Xi also called and expressed his wish to visit India. I welcomed him and invited him to visit Gujarat. He then said he wanted to visit Vadnagar, my village."



President Xi elaborated on the reason behind his interest, saying, "You and I share a special bond. Chinese philosopher Hiuen Tsang spent the longest time in your village, Vadnagar. When he returned to China, he settled in my village."

This historical reference underscores the cultural and historical ties between India and China, forged through figures like Hiuen Tsang, who traveled extensively in India during the 7th century and contributed to the exchange of knowledge and culture between the two nations.

PM Modi’s reflection on this connection sheds light on how such shared histories can form a basis for deeper understanding and dialogue between countries, even amid contemporary challenges.