A rendition of India's national song, Vande Mataram, by Ethiopian singers struck an emotional chord with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday at a banquet hosted in his honour by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in Addis Ababa, during his maiden visit to the African nation.
Describing the moment as “deeply moving”, the Prime Minister shared a video of the performance on social media. PM Modi said the gesture held special significance as India marks the 150th anniversary of its national song.
In the clip, PM Modi and members of the Indian delegation can be seen applauding warmly as the Ethiopian artistes delivered a soulful rendition of the iconic song Vande Mataram.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi addressed a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament, becoming the 18th world leader to address a foreign legislature during his tenure. Calling Ethiopia the “land of lions,” he said he felt at home, drawing a parallel with his home state of Gujarat, which is also known for its lion population.
“It is a moment of great privilege to stand before you in the temple of democracy of a nation with ancient wisdom and modern aspirations,” PM Modi said, conveying greetings of friendship and goodwill on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians. He praised Ethiopia’s democratic journey and said progress is achieved when the will of the people aligns with the will of the state.
The Prime Minister also thanked Abiy Ahmed Ali for conferring on him the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, the country’s highest civilian award. “I accept this honour with folded hands and humility on behalf of the people of India,” he said.
Highlighting shared cultural values, PM Modi noted that both India’s Vande Mataram and Ethiopia’s national anthem refer to the land as “mother,” reflecting a common reverence for the motherland and cultural heritage.
PM Modi’s parliamentary address followed wide-ranging talks with Abiy Ahmed Ali a day earlier, during which India and Ethiopia elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. The discussions focused on cooperation in areas including food and health security, digital public infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, medical tourism, energy and critical minerals.
As part of his ongoing engagements, the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit the Adwa Museum and pay homage at the Adwa Victory Memorial later on Wednesday.
PM Modi is on a four-day, three-nation tour and will depart Ethiopia for Oman next.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
