Indonesian ministers serenade with Bollywood charm, showcasing cultural ties during President Prabowo Subianto’s India visit.
New Delhi, January 26: In a touching cultural moment that highlighted the growing bond between India and Indonesia, an Indonesian delegation sang the iconic Bollywood song “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” at a banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday.
The delegation, which included senior Indonesian ministers, was in attendance to honor Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who is on a state visit to India and will serve as the Chief Guest for the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path.
The title track from the 1998 Bollywood blockbuster Kuch Kuch Hota Hai—starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji—remains a beloved melody worldwide. Composed by Jatin-Lalit and sung by Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik, the song has long been a cultural bridge connecting audiences across nations.
Indonesia’s Cultural Contribution to Republic Day
As part of the Republic Day celebrations, Indonesia’s Genderang Suling Canka Lokananta, a 190-member military band from the Indonesian Military Academy, will also perform, embodying the discipline and values that reflect Indonesia’s cultural and military heritage.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Prabowo Subianto at Hyderabad House, where both leaders discussed enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Key areas of focus included defense, security, maritime cooperation, economic collaboration, and people-to-people connections.
This cultural exchange, along with high-level discussions, underscores the strengthening ties between the two nations, blending shared values with forward-looking partnerships.