On Wednesday, Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta had a significant meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, describing the encounter as a “priceless” moment that symbolized his journey from an army officer and political foot soldier to a Member of Parliament standing alongside India’s most beloved leader. Accompanied by his parents, Sessanna Chowta and Pushpa Chowta, the MP presented PM Modi with a Pili Tha Mande, a tiger head mascot representing the Pili Nalike dance from Tulunadu— a cultural tradition PM Modi had previously highlighted in his Mann Ki Baat address.
Chowta also gifted a portrait of the Mangaluru Kambala, an event he has been fervently promoting, along with flowers and prasada from the Kollur Mookambike temple. Reflecting on the meeting, Chowta shared his emotions on social media: “This image speaks volumes of the journey of a son from a middle-class family, who served in the army and worked at the grassroots, now standing with the world’s most admired leader. Modiji planted this dream and made it a reality.”
Beyond personal sentiments, Chowta’s meeting also focused on development. He shared his vision to transform Mangaluru into a thriving region similar to Gujarat’s development under PM Modi. In a letter to the Prime Minister, Chowta emphasized the historical trade links between Gujarat and Mangaluru, their shared port city strength, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Chowta pointed out that Mangaluru has all the necessary ingredients to be self-reliant but has been overlooked due to state politics. He highlighted the region’s potential in sectors such as shipbuilding, fisheries, Hindutva, heritage, financial growth, and food processing. Mangaluru, he believes, has the capabilities to become a “mini-Gujarat,” provided it is given the right opportunities.
Read also: