August 16, 2024 | Press Release

In a poignant celebration of India’s 78th Independence Day, MakeMyTrip, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, has launched an emotional campaign titled ‘India: The Homecoming’. The initiative aims to rekindle the connection between the Indian diaspora and their homeland, inviting millions of Indians living abroad to rediscover their roots and witness the transformation that modern India has undergone.

At the heart of the campaign is an evocative online film featuring the legendary poet and lyricist Gulzar. His stirring words, “कितना हुआ है इन दिनों बदलाव तो देखो, तुम अपने घर में लौट कर आओ तो देखो” (kitna hua hai inn dino badlav toh dekho, tum apne ghar mein laut kar aao toh dekho), underscore the significant changes that have taken place in India over the years. The film acts as an emotional bridge, urging Indians across the globe to return to their homeland and experience its renewed vibrancy firsthand.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism and Culture, emphasised the campaign’s broader vision, stating, “In our efforts to enable the Indian diaspora to become Incredible India Ambassadors through the Chalo India initiative, the call to encourage the diaspora to rediscover their homeland and experience a transformed India is paramount. This Independence Day, we call upon Indians across the globe to take a trip back home and experience Incredible India in all its richness—not just for themselves, but for everyone whom Incredible India awaits.”

Echoing this sentiment, Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO of MakeMyTrip, added, “We are thrilled to launch the ‘India: The Homecoming’ campaign. By highlighting the progress, beauty, diversity, and rich heritage, we aim to inspire a sense of pride and nostalgia, encouraging the global community to visit and explore the nation. This initiative is about celebrating the unbreakable bond that every Indian, no matter where they are in the world, shares with their homeland.”

With its touching appeal and focus on cultural rediscovery, ‘India: The Homecoming’ hopes to inspire a global homecoming, with Indians abroad returning to not just celebrate their heritage, but also to witness the strides their motherland has made.