Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm and lively welcome from the Indian community in Johannesburg. As he arrived, the diaspora brought to life a vibrant showcase of traditional folk dances representing 11 Indian states, highlighting the rich diversity of Indian culture abroad.
The cultural event, named “Rhythms of a United India,” featured performances from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan. Dancers donned colorful costumes, accompanied by regional music, showcasing their strong cultural ties, even from thousands of miles away.
Modi, touched by the celebration, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his admiration: “India’s vibrant cultural diversity on display in South Africa! Members of the Indian community took the lead in showcasing folk dances from 11 states. It’s remarkable how they stay connected to their roots.”
A special moment followed when Tamil folk singer Kumari Ambigay performed “Ganga Maiya,” a Bhojpuri song she translated into Tamil for the occasion. This tribute to the sacred river left Modi moved. He described the performance as joyful and highlighted its significance, noting that it represents the hopes of the Girmitiya community, whose ancestors moved to South Africa generations ago.
Many performers shared their excitement, calling the experience a “lifetime moment.” One dancer noted, “PM Modi saw the performance very patiently.” Their efforts illustrated the diaspora’s unity and commitment to presenting India’s diverse culture to the world.
During his visit, Modi also met the winners of the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz, which aims to deepen connections between Indians abroad and their heritage. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering ties with India.
Modi’s trip to South Africa, coinciding with the G20 Summit 2025, was rich not just in diplomatic discussions but also in cultural exchanges. The celebrations in Johannesburg underscored the diaspora’s role as a cultural bridge, merging Indian traditions with South Africa’s diverse society. Modi’s visit reinforced this bond and offered the community a chance to celebrate their identity on a global stage.
In recent years, statistics show that the Indian diaspora has grown significantly in South Africa, with more than 1.5 million people of Indian origin living there. Experts argue this community plays a crucial role in building cultural and economic ties between India and South Africa, enhancing the diplomatic landscape and fostering cultural understanding.
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