PM Modi in Rome: Indian diaspora, Italian artists moved by historic welcome
Synopsis
Italian artists who had spent years studying Indian classical dance performed for Prime Minister Modi in Rome — and came away describing it as a life-defining moment. The reception, backed by the Indian Embassy, also spotlighted a quiet milestone: the Italian Parliament's official recognition of Hindus in Italy, which the Italian Hindu Union credited in part to Modi's sustained engagement.
Key Takeaways
PM Narendra Modi was welcomed in Rome on 20 May with a cultural ceremony organised by the Indian Embassy in Rome .
Members of the Indian diaspora in Italy described meeting Modi as a deeply emotional and proud moment.
Italian Kathak artist Rosella Fanelli and several other performers said Modi personally praised their act, calling it 'excellent'.
The Italian Hindu Union noted that Hindus are now officially recognised by the Italian Parliament , citing Modi's continued support since 2021 .
The Rome visit reflects India's sustained use of cultural diplomacy and diaspora engagement as pillars of its foreign policy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm cultural welcome in Rome on Wednesday, 20 May, as members of the Indian diaspora in Italy and local artists who performed at the reception expressed deep emotion and pride at witnessing what they described as India's growing global stature. The event, organised with the support of the Indian Embassy in Rome, brought together classical performers and community representatives for a ceremony that left many visibly moved.
Diaspora Members Share Emotional Reactions
Several members of the Indian community in Italy described the moment of meeting the Prime Minister as deeply personal. One diaspora member said, 'Today, I felt as if I had met God. This is the second time I am meeting him, and I felt very happy after meeting him.'
A representative of the Italian Hindu Union reflected on what Modi's presence means for Indians abroad: 'Whenever he comes here, his presence is very powerful. Seeing him, Indians feel happy that India is progressing a lot and continues to move forward in the same way.'
Italian Artists Describe the Cultural Performance
Artists who performed at the welcome ceremony — many of them Italian practitioners of Indian classical art forms — said the experience was unlike any other. Kathak artist Rosella Fanelli called it a deeply emotional occasion. 'It was very nice for me and for my friends. We were waiting for a long time, so the emotions were very high. I consider this opportunity a very nice experience, and I hope we can meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in India,' she said.
Artist Martina Argada recalled that Modi personally appreciated the troupe's efforts. 'He told us the performance was excellent. We are very thankful to the Indian Embassy in Rome for giving us the opportunity to perform in front of the Indian Prime Minister,' she said.
Performer Francesco Gherardi noted that the Prime Minister was visibly engaged throughout. 'His participation was there; we could feel it. He was clapping during the performance and gave us a lot of good vibes. We were able to shake hands with him and also had nice pictures together,' he said.
More Performers Recall the Moment
Artist Simone Mattiello described the atmosphere as joyful and said Modi appeared to genuinely connect with the performers. 'Our performance was very joyful, and I think he connected with us. He clapped, so I think he enjoyed it,' he said. Musician Nicolo Melocchi called it a 'great opportunity' to perform before the Prime Minister and interact with him briefly. Artist Valerio Bruni added that Modi seemed genuinely enthusiastic and appreciated the team's collective efforts.
Italian Hindu Union Highlights Broader Recognition
Beyond the cultural ceremony, the visit carried institutional significance for the Hindu community in Italy. Svamini Shuddhananda of the Italian Hindu Union noted that the Prime Minister has maintained his support for the organisation since their last meeting. 'We met him in 2021, and he has continued to support the Italian Hindu Union mission here. Recognition in the Italian Parliament is a very important achievement because Hindus are now officially recognised in Italy,' she said.
This comes amid a broader pattern of Modi's overseas visits serving as focal points for diaspora outreach — a consistent feature of his foreign policy engagements since 2014. The Rome reception underscores how Indian soft power, channelled through cultural diplomacy, continues to resonate well beyond South Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did PM Modi visit Rome?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Rome on 20 May as part of an overseas diplomatic engagement. The visit included a cultural welcome ceremony organised by the Indian Embassy in Rome, attended by members of the Indian diaspora and local artists.
Who performed at PM Modi's welcome ceremony in Rome?
Several Italian artists trained in Indian classical arts performed at the ceremony, including Kathak artist Rosella Fanelli, and performers Martina Argada, Francesco Gherardi, Simone Mattiello, musician Nicolo Melocchi, and artist Valerio Bruni.
What did the Italian Hindu Union say about PM Modi's visit?
Svamini Shuddhananda of the Italian Hindu Union said Modi has continued to support the organisation since their last meeting in 2021. She also highlighted that Hindus are now officially recognised by the Italian Parliament, calling it a very important achievement.
How did PM Modi respond to the cultural performances in Rome?
According to the artists who performed, Modi was visibly engaged — he clapped during the performance, praised the act as 'excellent', shook hands with performers, and posed for photographs with them.
What does the Indian diaspora's reaction to Modi's Rome visit reflect?
The reactions reflect the strong emotional connection many overseas Indians feel toward the Prime Minister. Several community members described the meeting as a moment of personal pride, with one comparing it to a spiritual experience, underlining how Modi's foreign visits serve as diaspora outreach events alongside their diplomatic purpose.
