Kuala Lumpur, Feb 7 (NationPress) As Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a two-day visit to Malaysia at the invitation of his counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim, various performing artists from different Indian states expressed their enthusiasm in anticipation of their cultural showcase to honor him.

Multiple artists shared with IANS that they had been preparing for weeks, with participants from India’s rich cultural heritage uniting on one stage in Kuala Lumpur. They anticipate the event will be a significant cultural milestone, featuring over 800 individuals.

One artist commented, “I am eager to welcome PM Modi with all my heart. My excitement is such that I have left my family behind just to be here for him.”

Another performer stated, “We hail from Punjab. Even though I am from Marathi roots, representing Punjab fills me with pride. We are honored to welcome you, PM Narendra Modi.”

Echoing this sentiment, another artist said, “We are thrilled to greet PM Modi in this region.”

A Bharatanatyam dancer shared that this visit has allowed her to return to the stage after years.

“This is a monumental opportunity for me as I have performed Bharatanatyam since childhood but had to step away for my studies. With PM Modi’s arrival, I’m excited to showcase my dance again,” she expressed.

Another participant remarked, “This will set a record for Malaysia. More than 800 dancers will welcome PM Modi on a grand stage. Such opportunities are rare in India, but here we get to perform.”

The artists indicated that the performances will feature a mix of classical and folk traditions. “We will greet PM Modi through our dance. As Indians, our excitement is palpable,” one said.

A performer from Bharat Club expressed, “We are thrilled. Our team has prepared an array of classical and folk dances.”

Another artist noted, “We’re presenting our traditional dance, the Sambalpuri art form. We aim to showcase the culture and art of Odisha to welcome PM Modi.”

One performer added, “We began preparations a month ago and were eager for his visit. We wanted to offer something special to PM Modi and display our culture abroad.”

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi mentioned that his visit aims to strengthen defense and security ties and enhance economic and innovation partnerships between the two nations.

This marks his third trip to the Southeast Asian country, and it is the first following the upgrade of the India-Malaysia bilateral relationship to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership' in August 2024.