Former US President Jimmy Carter's Special Connection with Haryana: The Story of Carterpuri Village

Jimmy Carter, the longest-living US president, passed away on Sunday at the age of 99. His death brought a wave of sadness to Carterpuri village in Gurugram, where residents still cherish his historic 1978 visit. In January 1978, then-US President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter visited a small village near present-day Gurugram. What was meant to be a 30-minute visit extended to an hour as the President, dressed in traditional Haryanvi attire gifted by the villagers, immersed himself in the local culture. The village, formerly known as Daultpur Nasirabad, was subsequently renamed Carterpuri in his honor. 

A Mother's Legacy 

The connection between Carter and the village began through his mother, Bessie Lillian Carter, who served as a health volunteer with the Peace Corps in the village during the late 1960s. Her work as a nurse during World War II brought her to India, and her experiences inspired President Carter to specifically choose this village during his India tour.

Lasting Impact on Indo-US Relations 

Carter's visit to the village coincided with significant diplomatic developments, including the signing of a declaration with then-Prime Minister Morarji Desai in Delhi. This visit marked the beginning of a new era in Indo-US relations. The village continues to commemorate Carter's visit by observing January 3 as a holiday, marking the day of his historic visit.

Cultural Legacy

Local resident Atar Singh recalls the visit creating a Diwali-like atmosphere in the village. The renaming proposal, supported by then-Chief Minister Tau Devi Lal and approved by the village panchayat, transformed the village's identity. Though newer residents sometimes find the name unusual, it stands as a testament to a unique cross-cultural connection between rural Haryana and the United States.