Picture Abhi Baki Hai Mere Dost: Eric Garcetti Bids Farewell As US Envoy To India

NEW DELHI (ANI) – In his farewell message, Eric Garcetti, the outgoing US Ambassador to India, reflected on the strong ties forged between the two nations during his tenure. As the 26th US Ambassador to India, Garcetti expressed deep gratitude for the country that had left an indelible mark on him both personally and professionally.

In a heartfelt video posted on his social media, Garcetti reminisced about his journey, recalling his first visit to India as a child and later as a student. He acknowledged the warmth and hospitality of the Indian people, underscoring the rich and diverse experiences that defined his time in the country.

“My dear India: you’re not just incredible—you’re unforgettable. With love, Eric,” he wrote.

“From the moment I landed in New Delhi to serve as the 26th U.S. Ambassador, India has felt like home,” Garcetti said. “Your people’s dosti and zindadili touch me every day,” referring to the deep friendships and vibrant spirit he experienced across the nation.

During his tenure, Eric Garcetti traveled extensively, visiting 28 states and immersing himself in India’s unique culture and heritage. He mentioned several significant moments, such as floating past the Ghats at Varanasi, crossing living root bridges in Meghalaya, sailing through Kerala’s backwaters, and cheering for India’s cricket team at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

“I’ve been able to float past the Ghats at Varanasi, cross living root bridges in Meghalaya, sail through the backwaters of Kerala, cheer on India at Modi Stadium, and play hoops with the girls in bustling Mumbai,” he said. “I’ve seen the fusion of ancient royalty and modern innovation in Hyderabad, celebrated Kolkata’s culture, and marveled at the history of Chennai’s ancient temples.”

Eric Garcetti also highlighted key milestones of his tenure, including the opening of the new US Consulate in Bengaluru, which marked a new chapter in US-India relations. He spoke about the collaborative efforts between the US and India in areas such as vaccine distribution, technology, and education, emphasizing the close cooperation between scientists, businesses, and students from both nations.

“We’ve seen our businesses trade together, our soldiers train together, and our people celebrate together,” Garcetti reflected.

The outgoing Ambassador commended India’s spirit of innovation and progress, noting that the mutual aspirations of the US and India align closely. He expressed optimism about the future of their partnership, saying, “The American and the Indian dream—they’re flip sides of the same coin.”

“India, you have my heart,” he said. “I will always deeply love America, where I was born. But India has been a place where I’ve learned to embrace life in full color, a place where humanity can understand our past and glimpse our future.”

As his tenure draws to a close, Eric Garcetti expressed confidence that the bond between the US and India would only grow stronger. He ended his message with the famous Bollywood dialogue from Shah Rukh Khan’s Om Shanti Om: “Picture abhi baaki hai mere dost!”

“Our relationship is truly an enduring story of love for the ages. And we are only getting started,” Garcetti concluded.

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