Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the rich display of Indian cultural traditions during his visit to Gothenburg in Sweden. He acknowledged the efforts of the Indian community in organising performances that reflected India's diverse cultural heritage on an international platform.
PM Modi highlighted the prominence of Bengali culture during the welcome event and remarked, "Bengali culture is popular world over and Sweden is no exception. During the community welcome, in which PM Kristersson was also present, a glimpse of the glorious Bengali culture was on display".
He observed that such cultural representations demonstrate the global appeal of Indian traditions.
The Prime Minister watched a Bharatanatyam performance by students of Lilla Akademien and described it as captivating.
He stated, "A mesmerising Bharatanatyam performance by the talented students of Lilla Akademien…glad that Indian culture is kept alive and is being popularised by our diaspora in Sweden," recognising the role of the diaspora in preserving and promoting classical Indian art forms abroad.
PM Modi, accompanied by Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, attended an Indo-Swedish musical orchestra led by Ron Davis Alvarez and his students.
Reflecting on the event, he said, "PM Kristersson and I witnessed an Indo-Swedish Musical Orchestra Presentation by Ron Davis Alvarez and his students. Music is a great way to bring our people together." He emphasised that music serves as an effective medium to connect people across cultures.
Earlier, both leaders attended a reception featuring cultural and musical performances following PM Modi's arrival in Sweden. Swedish opera singer Charlotta Huldt performed 'Vaishnava Jana To' as part of the welcoming ceremony.
PM Modi expressed his appreciation for the reception and stated that the warmth and the affection shown by the Indian community in Gothenburg were 'truly heartening'.
The visit highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations between India and Sweden. It also demonstrated how the Indian diaspora continues to contribute to promoting cultural understanding and reinforcing ties between the two countries.