Former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes on Wednesday (January 26) shared a letter he received from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on India's 73rd Republic Day.
Rhodes uploaded the letter on Twitter and wrote: “Thank you @narendramodi ji for the very kind words. I have indeed grown so much as an individual on every visit to India. My whole family celebrates #RepublicDay with all of India, honouring the importance of a #Constitution that protects the rights of the Indian people #JaiHind.”
In his letter, PM Modi acknowledged Jonty Rhodes’ ‘affection towards India’ and called him a ‘special ambassador of strong relations' between India and South Africa.
The Prime Minister also cited the significance of this year's Republic Day and hoped that Rhodes will ‘continue to work closely’ with the nation.
“26th January this year is even more special because it is happening at a time when India marks 75 years since freedom from colonial rule. Thus, I decided to write to you and a few other friends of India, with a sense of gratitude for your affection towards India and a hope that you continue to work closely with our nation as well as our people,” wrote PM Modi, before acknowledging Jonty Rhodes’ heartfelt gesture to name his daughter after India.
"The special bond was truly reflected when you named your daughter after this great nation. You truly are a special ambassador of the strong relations between our nations.”
West Indies legend Chris Gayle also took to Twitter to reveal that he received a personal message from PM Modi on India’s 73rd Republic Day.
“I would like to congratulate India on their 73rd Republic Day. I woke up to a personal message from Prime Minister Modi @narendramodi reaffirming my close personal ties with him and to the people of India. Congratulations from the Universe Boss and nuff love,” wrote Gayle.
