Johannesburg, Nov 21 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi was given a rousing welcome by the Indian community as he arrived in Johannesburg on a three-day visit to attend the G20 Summit. PM Modi said the warm welcome is reflective of the enduring bond between India and South Africa.
PM Modi, who landed at the Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria on Friday afternoon, was accorded a traditional welcome at the airport by senior officials.
At the hotel, the PM was greeted by loud cheers and slogans of “Modi, Modi” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai” by Indian community members waving Indian flags.
The PM said he was deeply touched by the warmth of the greeting by the Indian community.
“Deeply touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in Johannesburg. This affection reflects the enduring bond between India and South Africa. These ties, rooted in history and strengthened by shared values, continue to grow even stronger!”
The Indian diaspora also presented traditional Indian song and dance items before the PM at the hotel lobby.
Commenting on the Indian talent on showcase, the PM said that folk dances from 11 states of India were presented during the cultural programme titled ‘Rhythms of a United India.
“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 of India during a short cultural programme aptly titled ‘Rhythms of a United India.’ It is commendable how the Indian community has remained connected with its roots.”
An Indian lady diaspora member also sang a South African Girmitiya song ‘Ganga Maiya’, while young Indian diaspora students sang the Ganapathi Prarthana.
The PM, posting videos of the events on his X handle, wrote that it was commendable to see the diaspora keeping India alive in their hearts through songs and prayers.
“The cultural connect between India and South Africa is truly heartwarming and timeless. In Johannesburg, my young friends sang the Ganapati Prarthana, Shanti Mantra and other divine prayers with great devotion. Such moments reaffirm the enduring bonds between our people.
“It was a gladdening and moving experience for me to witness a performance of the South African Girmitiya song ‘Ganga Maiya’ in Johannesburg. Another special part of this performance was the rendition in Tamil! This song carries with it hope and unbroken spirit of those who came here many years ago. They faced numerous hardships on the way but that did not deter them. They kept India alive in their hearts through songs and prayers. Thus, it is commendable to see this cultural connect kept alive.”
