Why was PM Modi welcomed with an Indian devotional song at Brasilia's Alvorada Palace?

New Delhi, July 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a heartfelt welcome with a unique performance of Ram Bhajan at Brasilia's Alvorada Palace, in addition to an elaborate ceremonial reception prior to his official discussions with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

According to External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, a 2.48-minute video was shared on X showcasing the moment: "Upon arrival at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia ahead of official talks, PM @narendramodi was welcomed with a special performance of ‘Ram Bhajan’."

The video features classical vocalist Meeta Ravindra Kumar Karahe delivering a devotional song to honor PM Modi.

Seen alongside President Lula da Silva, PM Modi appeared to appreciate and enjoy the performance, clapping gently in rhythm with the Bhajan.

In an interview with IANS, Meeta commented: "I met the Prime Minister yesterday evening (Brazil time) and greeted him with a distant 'Namaste'. I informed him that I would sing for him the following day. The invitation to perform came from the Brazilian government."

She expressed that the people of Brazil are "quite similar" to Indians, particularly in their behavior and hospitality. Despite being far from her homeland, she feels that Brazil, which holds great respect for India, resembles "a second India".

"I began my classical music training at a young age... around 10-11 years old. The invitation from the Brazilian government stated that President Lula desired a performer from PM Modi's home country to sing a devotional piece he enjoys," she conveyed to IANS.

On Tuesday, PM Modi received a warm reception from Brazil's President Lula da Silva at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, marking the start of his State Visit following his attendance at the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro.

During their discussions, both leaders committed to enhancing cooperation between their nations across various sectors. PM Modi referred to President Lula da Silva as the "Chief Architect of the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil", emphasizing his vital role in "deepening our relations".

PM Modi remarked on X, "Held fruitful talks with President Lula, who has always been passionate about India-Brazil friendship. Our discussions encompassed methods to strengthen trade ties and diversify bilateral commerce. We both concur that there is vast potential for these connections to flourish in the future."

Topics such as clean energy, sustainable development, and addressing climate change were also prominent in their discussions. Other areas of potential collaboration include defense, security, AI, and agriculture. The cooperation between India and Brazil in space, semiconductors, and DPI will significantly benefit our citizens," PM Modi stated on X.

During a joint press conference with President Lula, PM Modi expressed, "I sincerely thank my friend, President Lula, for the warm welcome in Rio and Brasilia. We are genuinely touched by the beauty of the Amazon and your kindness. Being honored with Brazil's highest national award by the President is a moment of immense pride and emotion, not just for me but for 1.4 billion Indians. I am deeply grateful to the President, the Brazilian government, and the people of Brazil for this honor."

He added, "My friend President Lula is the Chief Architect of the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil, having made significant contributions to deepening our ties. Every meeting with him motivates me to strive harder for the progress and well-being of both our nations. I dedicate this honor to his unwavering commitment to India and our lasting friendship."