Mumbai, Oct 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his visiting UK counterpart Keir Starmer experienced a captivating classical interpretation of “Sapphire”, the popular collaborative piece by Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh, here on Thursday.

The performance, executed by talented Indian classical musicians, showcased traditional instruments such as the sitar, tabla, violin, and harmonium, beautifully merging Sheeran’s melody with the rich essence of Indian classical music.

In a brief video shared on his official X account, Prime Minister Modi expressed: "Wonderful rendition of Ed Sheeran & Arijit Singh’s ‘Sapphire’, which exemplifies India-UK cultural collaboration!"

This event underscored the increasing cultural ties between the two nations, with PM Modi asserting that music serves as a bridge over geographical divides.

Released in June 2025 as the third single from Sheeran’s eighth studio album “Play”, “Sapphire” represents the British artist's inaugural collaboration with Indian playback sensation Arijit Singh.

The track, lauded for its blend of Western pop and Punjabi musical styles, reached No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart, marking Sheeran’s 43rd Top 10 hit in his homeland. It also dominated India’s IMI International Top 20 Singles Chart for an impressive 16 weeks, reflecting its worldwide acclaim.

This concert was part of Prime Minister Starmer’s inaugural official visit to India following his assumption of office.

Earlier that day, he was welcomed by PM Modi at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, where both leaders engaged in discussions to enhance the India-UK strategic partnership, focusing on areas such as trade, technology, education, and culture.

During his Mumbai visit, Starmer also toured Yash Raj Studios, where he was warmly welcomed with the iconic Bollywood love song “Tujhe Dekha To” from the 1995 classic “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol -- a cultural moment that embodies the emotional connection between Indian cinema and its global audience.