France: PM Modi receives warm welcome in Nice with cultural performance, diaspora reception
Nice, June 14
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday received a warm welcome at his hotel with a captivating cultural performance titled 'Echoes of Tradition, Spirits of Innovation'.
The performance beautifully showcased the Kathak, Odissi, and Bharatanatyam in perfect harmony. Set to Pandit Madhup Mudgal's composition 'Charishnu', the presentation featured artists Isabelle Anna (Kathak), Chloe Romero (Odissi), and Marianna Biadene (Bharatanatyam).
The performance celebrated India's timeless cultural heritage and its spirit of innovation, reflecting a modern India deeply rooted in tradition yet evolving and engaging with the world through art and cultural dialogue.
Prime Minister also received a warm welcome from members of the Indian diaspora. Members of the Indian community gathered in large numbers, waving the tricolour and raising slogans to greet the Prime Minister.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "A memorable welcome from the Indian community in Nice. Though they may be several kilometres away from home, the bond of our diaspora with India remains as strong as ever."
Further, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said PM Modi received a heartwarming welcome from the Indian community in Nice, with diaspora warmth, energy and affection on display, alongside cultural performances of Kathak, Odissi and Bharatanatyam by French and European artists.
"Engaging with larger family abroad! PM @narendramodi received a heartwarming welcome from the Indian community in France upon his arrival in Nice today. The warmth, energy and affection of the diaspora were truly special. PM also witnessed a colourful performance of Kathak, Odissi and Bharatanatyam by French and European artists," the MEA said.
The Prime Minister arrived in Nice, marking the start of his visit to France that will also include engagements in Evian and Paris, aimed at deepening India's bilateral and multilateral partnerships.
During the visit, he is scheduled to meet French President Emmanuel Macron and participate in the "Bharat Innovates" programme.
At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, PM Modi will undertake engagements in Nice from June 13-14, followed by visits to Evian and Paris from June 16-18.
In Nice on June 14, the Prime Minister will hold a bilateral meeting with President Macron. The two leaders will also jointly inaugurate the 'Bharat Innovates' event, which will bring together leading innovation startups and venture capital funds from India, France, and other countries.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a non-Indian, I find this cultural exchange beautiful. But I do wonder if the massive diaspora turnout is partly orchestrated by the embassy. Still, nice to see India's traditions being celebrated abroad.
The diaspora connection is real though. My cousin lives in Paris and she was there - said it was completely spontaneous, people flew in from Marseille and Lyon too. When PM says 'bond remains strong', he means it. 😌
Interesting how India uses classical dance as diplomatic currency. Meanwhile, Western nations send pop stars. Different strokes for different folks, but I think the authenticity of Kathak and Odissi leaves a deeper impression.
Honestly, this is smart diplomacy. India needs more such cultural initiatives in the West instead of just exporting Bollywood. But I hope the 'Bharat Innovates' event gets more attention - we need tech partnerships too, not just song and dance.
Nice is such a beautiful city for this - perfect backdrop for Indian classical dance. The fusion of traditions is the real story here. My French colleague saw a Bharatanatyam performance in Lyon last year and was mesmerized. Art truly speaks a universal language.
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