Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, died peacefully on December 30, 2024, at the age of 100. A figure whose influence extended far beyond American borders, Carter left a deep legacy in various countries, including India. His 1978 visit to India, although a small part of his international travels, became iconic in the village of Daulatpur Nasirabad in Haryana, where a permanent tribute is kept to the former president. Here are some lesser-known details about Carter’s historic journey and the lasting bond he formed with the people of India.
A village was reborn in his honor
On January 3, 1978, Jimmy Carter visited Daulatpur Nasirabad, a rural village in Haryana, with his wife Rosalynn. The trip was a symbol of Carter’s dedication to promoting peace, development, and human rights globally. The villagers were so impressed by his presence and the attention he gave them that they decided to name their village “Carterpuri” in his honour. In fact, the gesture of renaming the village was so meaningful that he remained in contact with the White House for the duration of his tenure.
cultural moment
During his visit, Carter experienced the warm hospitality and rich traditions of Haryana. A traditional Haryanvi turban was placed on Carter’s head at the village chaupal. Rosalynn Carter was also welcomed with traditional Haryanvi attire, including a scarf that was used to cover her face, a custom adopted by local women. In light conversation, President Carter would playfully lift her scarf every time she lowered it to look at his wife.
Carter wanted to “adopt” the village.
One of the most touching aspects of Carter’s visit was his suggestion to “adopt” the village. However, then Prime Minister Morarji Desai rejected the idea, preferring to provide aid without formal adoption. According to some villagers, this decision is a missed opportunity. Despite this, many villagers treasured their correspondence with the White House, keeping photographs and letters from Carter and his family as cherished souvenirs.
Carter’s gifts to the village
Carter’s visit left a tangible impression on the village. He gifted the villagers a television and equipment for the local school’s laboratory. For the residents of Daulatpur Nasirabad, television became a symbol of progress – a first in the village. Even school equipment contributed to the educational development of local children. The TV was placed in the Panchayat Bhawan, where it remained a valuable resource for years to come. In return, the women of the village presented traditional Haryanvi dresses to Rosalynn Carter.
Unique Holidays in Carterpuri
The bond between Carter and the village of Carterpuri did not end with this trip. The villagers declared January 3 a local holiday in recognition of Carter’s contributions to their community. This tradition continued every year, honoring not only the visit of the US President but also his subsequent achievements. When Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, the villagers celebrated for a long time.
Carter’s personal relationship with India
Carter’s relations with India extended far beyond this historic visit. His mother, Lillian Carter, worked as a nurse in Bombay (now Mumbai) and as a health volunteer with the Peace Corps during the 1960s. It is believed that his experiences in India deeply influenced his son, urging him to connect with the country on a personal level during his presidency.
More information about the demise of the former President
As soon as Carter’s death was announced, tributes poured in from around the world. His son Chip Carter described him as a “hero” who embodied the values of peace, human rights and selfless love. Current US President Joe Biden also expressed his condolences and declared January 9 as a national day of mourning in honor of the former president. Others who paid tribute to Carter included incoming President Donald Trump, current Vice President Kamala Harris and King Charles.
