Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic two-day visit to Kuwait, a moving highlight was a heartfelt performance by Kuwaiti singer Mubarak Al Rashed. At the ‘Hala Modi’ event held at the Shaikh Saad Al Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex, Mr. Al Rashed performed the iconic Indian song ‘Saare Jahaan Se Accha’, celebrating the strengthening of ties between the two nations.
A Musical Tribute to India
Mubarak Al Rashed, a celebrated figure in Kuwaiti music, not only sang ‘Saare Jahaan Se Accha’ but also performed ‘Vaishnav Jan To,’paying tribute to Indian culture and heritage. Known for his fondness for Indian music, he often shares videos of himself singing Bollywood tracks on TikTok.
Speaking to ANI, Mr. Al Rashed shared his admiration for PM Modi’s speech at the event. “He spoke about my country, Kuwait, and the strong relationship between the two nations. I feel proud to be Kuwaiti,” he said, expressing gratitude for PM Modi’s invitation to Kuwaitis to visit India.
PM Modi’s Landmark Visit to Kuwait
The ‘Hala Modi’ event marked the start of PM Modi’s visit, which is the first by an Indian prime minister in 43 years. Upon his arrival on December 21, PM Modi was received by Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah and other dignitaries.
In his departure statement, PM Modi emphasized the significance of his meetings with Kuwait’s top leadership, aiming to lay the foundation for a “futuristic partnership.”
India-Kuwait Relations
India and Kuwait share deep-rooted ties that trace back centuries, particularly through maritime trade. Currently, the Indian community forms 21% of Kuwait’s population and 30% of its workforce, making it a vital pillar of Kuwait’s economy.
Kuwait is among India’s top trading partners, with bilateral trade valued at $10.47 billion in 2023-24. The Gulf nation is also India’s sixth-largest crude oil supplier, reinforcing its role in India’s energy security.
The last visit by an Indian prime minister to Kuwait was by Indira Gandhi in 1981, making PM Modi’s trip a significant milestone in bilateral relations.
