Kamala Harris, the first female vice president of the United States, has roots in India that once captivated the country but have now faded from the forefront. While residents in New Delhi expressed pride in her accomplishments, some remain unaware of her background due to her emphasis on her Jamaican heritage. Harris, who visited India during her childhood and spoke emotionally about her ties to the country last year, has not focused on relations with India during her time as vice president.
Despite minimal coverage in Indian media, Harris’ potential nomination as the Democratic candidate for president would be historic for the South Asian American community in the U.S., showcasing the progress made by the diaspora. While a Harris presidency may not have a significant impact on India-U.S. ties, it holds symbolic importance for Indians like Shivaji Shinde, who sees it as a moment of immense pride for the nation and every Indian. In Thulasendrapuram, the village where Harris’ family once lived, residents celebrated the news of her potential candidacy, expressing joy at the prospect of someone with Tamil roots reaching such a high office.
Although Harris’ Indian identity may not be at the forefront of her campaign, her achievements hold significance for the Indian American community and highlight the progress made by individuals with roots in India in American politics. As she continues to make strides towards becoming the Democratic nominee for president, her journey resonates with pride and hope for many in India and beyond.
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