Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100 years. His death marked the end of an era, and in honour of his significant contributions to the US and the global community, a state funeral was organised that drew attendees from far and wide. Condolence messages flooded worldwide, reflecting people's deep respect and admiration for him. Various commemorative events were held as part of a national day of mourning. Still, one event stood out in particular: the heartfelt tributes in Daulatpur Nasirabad, Haryana, which was officially renamed Carterpuri Village to commemorate the lasting legacy of President Carter’s visit over four decades back.
On January 3, 1978, President Carter and then First Lady Rosalynn Carter travelled to Daulatpur Nasirabad, a small village located about an hour southwest of New Delhi. This was the third sitting American president to visit India and, notably, the only one with a personal connection to the country, as his mother, Lillian Carter, had served as a health volunteer with the Peace Corps during the late 1960s. This relationship helped solidify a bond between the US and India that resonates today. In recognition of this important visit, the village was renamed Carterpuri, signifying deep appreciation and admiration for the president and his family.
The impact of this visit has been profound and enduring. The community’s affection for Carter was particularly evident during the celebrations surrounding his receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, where the villagers held joyous festivities in his honour. Even today, January 3 is celebrated as a holiday in Carterpuri, filled with remembrance and gratitude.
Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, wrote heartfelt letters to the village, expressing their sincere gratitude for the remarkable hospitality and warmth they received from the residents. “…It was without a doubt one of the high points of my entire foreign travel and represented an experience I shall not soon forget. What I saw and heard from you, and your friends and neighbours, strengthened my conviction that regardless, all men and women share an aspiration for freedom, dignity and a desire to improve our children’s lives…” says a letter from January 1978. The villagers cherish the photographs and heartfelt letters exchanged during that pivotal visit, treating them as invaluable treasures embodying friendship and mutual respect between nations.
In preparation for President Carter’s arrival, the village undertook several extensive undertakings to ensure everything was perfect. Roads were repaired to facilitate travel, streets were meticulously cleaned, and safety precautions were implemented to create a welcoming atmosphere. When President Carter arrived, he was met with exuberance from the villagers and was warmly welcomed by Indian officials and then Prime Minister Morarji Desai. During his visit to the village chaupal, a traditional communal space, he embraced local culture by donning a traditional Haryanvi turban, while Rosalynn Carter dressed in beautiful local attire, symbolising a deep respect for Indian customs. This visit not only fostered goodwill and shared values between the two nations but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of the people in Carterpuri, a legacy that continues to inspire unity and friendship.
The village is located near Bijwasan in South Delhi, approximately 6 km from the Gurgaon railway station. The nearest airport is in Delhi. Carterpuri is around 132.7 km or two and half hours from Delhi.
