Sun, 17 May 2026
World News Updated May 17, 2026 · 21:36

PM Modi Lauds Bengali Culture and Bharatanatyam Display in Sweden During Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Bengali cultural displays and a Bharatanatyam performance during his visit to Sweden. He shared glimpses of the community welcome, which also included Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson. Modi highlighted the efforts of the Indian diaspora in popularizing Indian culture abroad. He also enjoyed an Indo-Swedish musical orchestra and a rendition of 'Vaishnava Jana To' by Swedish opera singer Charlotta Huldt.

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PM Modi lauds Indian cultural display of traditions on global stage

Gothenburg, May 17

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded the Bengali cultural display and Bharatanatyam performance organised to welcome him as he began his visit to Sweden.

"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", PM Modi wrote on X, sharing some facets of the cultural performance.

The PM also witnessed a Bharatanatyam performance by Lilla Akademien during the community welcome.

"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," PM Modi wrote on X, sharing a glimpse of the performance.

PM Modi, along with his Swedish counterpart Ulf Kristersson, also witnessed an Indo-Swedish Musical Orchestra.

"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!"

PMs Modi and Kristersson, earlier on Sunday, witnessed cultural performances and an orchestra performance as the Indian leader landed in Sweden. Swedish opera singer Charlotta Huldt sang 'Vaishnava Jana To' while welcoming the Indian PM.

"It is heartening to see the timeless thoughts of Bapu continue to reverberate in Sweden. Swedish opera singer Charlotta Huldt sang 'Vaishnava Jana To' during the welcome in Gothenburg. May Mahatma Gandhi's thoughts inspire us all to make a better planet!", he said on X.

PM Modi also said that the warmth and the affection of the Indian community in Gothenburg were "truly heartening."

"The warmth and affection of the Indian community in Gothenburg were truly heartening. Their deep connection with India and their contribution to strengthening India-Sweden ties make us all very proud," he posted on X.

PM Modi arrived in Sweden after concluding his visit to the Netherlands. PM Kristersson welcomed him at the airport.

During his visit, PMs Modi and Kristersson are slated to review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and explore new avenues of cooperation to enhance bilateral trade, according to the statement released by MEA.

The two PMs will address the European Round Table for Industry, a leading pan-European business leaders forum, along with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

— IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sneha F
While the cultural display is indeed heartwarming, I wish our government would invest equally in strengthening grassroots art forms back home. Our classical dancers and folk artists struggle for basic funding. But yes, good to see India's soft power being projected abroad. 👏
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Rohit L
This is what Bharat stands for! Civilisational pride and cultural outreach. PM Modi is ensuring that the world recognises the depth and diversity of Indian traditions. From Bharatanatyam to Bengali songs, everything was beautifully represented. Kudos to the Indian diaspora in Sweden! 🤝
A
Aditi M
I really love how the Indian diaspora preserves our culture abroad. Teaching Bharatanatyam to Swedish students and organising Bengali cultural performances keeps our heritage alive across generations. PM Modi acknowledging these efforts makes the community feel valued. Wonderful diplomacy!
K
Karan T
Culture is India's greatest export! While we debate politics and economics, our art and traditions quietly win hearts worldwide. The 'Vaishnava Jana To' rendition by a Swedish singer was a perfect touch - Gandhian philosophy transcends borders. But I hope similar platforms are created for Indian artists at home.
R
Ravi K
Incredible to see our culture being celebrated so beautifully! The Indo-Swedish orchestra and fusion of traditions shows that art truly connects people. PM Modi and PM Kristersson together witnessing this sends a strong message of cultural collaboration. Proud moment indeed! 🇮🇳🇸🇪

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