MOSCOW: Visits of world leaders to different countries are often seen as a sign of increased economic tolerance, acceptance and a commitment to mutual co-operation. However, it is usually a lot more than just business. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been called upon by several nations ever since he assumed office. He has consistently promoted the India as a whole. Right from the market for foreign investment, to yoga for health benefits, Modi, for the past two years, has unfailingly shown what India is and can be.
With the pride he emits when it comes to Indian culture, fellow countries have begun to pick it up too; celebrating Hindu traditions and its perks. One of the best examples of this was seen at the 'Friends of India' event held in Moscow, Russia, last year. PM Modi who was in Russia for an annual summit that was focused on boosting cooperation in defence and nuclear energy along with India's participation in Russia's oil and gas sector, attended several engagements including the said event where addressed the gathering after the cultural programme.
One of the major highlights of the evening remained the performance of popular Russian pop singer Sati Kazanova, who kicked off the event by reciting Sanskrit shlokas impeccably. Singing "Om Ganapataya Namah", Sati won many hearts with her performance. A vegetarian who practises Yoga and vows by its effects, Sati later met with Modi and shared her views regarding Sanatana Dharma, adding she wants a big Hindu temple in Russia.
Later during his address, Modi commended her performance saying, "The way Russian artistes presented Indian culture, I want to congratulate all of them. I heard the chanting of Vedic Mantras and I am told the singer who recited the Mantras is a famous pop singer in Russia. A pop singer who can perform those mantras, without a paper in her hand, shows her level of devotion."
