Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, has been a source of pride for her maternal family’s ancestral village in southern India. However, as she works to become the Democratic nominee for president, the reaction across India has been more muted. While some residents in New Delhi expressed pride, others seemed unfamiliar with her.
Harris, who is of Indian and Jamaican descent, has not heavily emphasized her Indian roots, which may explain the lack of enthusiasm in India. Despite this, she has spoken emotionally about her ties to India, crediting her grandfather for inspiring her interest in public service and democracy. Her potential nomination as the Democratic candidate would be a historic moment for the Indian American community in the U.S.
Experts suggest that a Harris presidency would have more significance for American politics than for India-U.S. ties, which are expected to grow regardless of the election outcome due to shared concerns about China. While some in India see her as an American official rather than someone of Indian origin, the news of her potential presidency has been met with joy in her ancestral village, where prayers were offered at the local temple in her honor.
Overall, Harris’ candidacy represents a symbol of progress for the Indian American community in the U.S. and a historic moment for India if she were to become president. Despite not heavily emphasizing her Indian identity, her potential nomination signifies the growing influence of the Indian diaspora in American politics.
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