Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Indonesia offered more than diplomatic discussions. It also became a celebration of the deep cultural ties between the two nations as Bollywood music echoed through official events and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto spoke warmly about India's influence on his country. The visit highlighted how cinema and music continue to strengthen India-Indonesia relations beyond politics and trade.
Bollywood music adds warmth to Modi Indonesia visit
During one of Prime Minister Modi's engagements in Indonesia, the iconic melody of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai welcomed guests, creating a memorable cultural moment. President Prabowo Subianto later remarked that he had undergone genome sequencing and discovered what he jokingly described as "Indian DNA," adding that Indian music naturally makes him want to move and dance.
The two leaders also played the traditional Indonesian bamboo instrument known as the angklung. Their joint performance symbolized friendship and cultural harmony while drawing enthusiastic applause from those attending the event. The gesture reflected the growing people-to-people connection between India and Indonesia.
Prabowo praises Indian music and culture
Addressing members of the Indian diaspora in Jakarta, Prime Minister Modi referred to the popularity of Bollywood in Indonesia. Speaking in Hindi, he playfully told President Prabowo that when India and Indonesia come together, it is not merely "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" but "Bahut Kuch Hota Hai," emphasizing that the partnership extends far beyond symbolism.
President Prabowo also shared that several members of his cabinet and senior military officials enjoy Indian songs and frequently sing or dance to Bollywood music. His comments illustrated the widespread appreciation for Indian entertainment across Indonesian society.
Bollywood remains deeply rooted in Indonesia
The popularity of Bollywood in Indonesia is built on decades of cultural exchange. Indian films have been screened across the country since the mid-20th century, supported by shared historical traditions and the influence of epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, which remain important parts of Indonesian culture.
Classic films starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji continue to attract audiences, while songs from Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Kal Ho Naa Ho are regularly played at weddings, festivals and community celebrations.
Social media keeps Indian entertainment thriving
The popularity of Indian music has also expanded through digital platforms. Songs by A.R. Rahman, Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar and many contemporary Indian artists frequently trend across Indonesian social media. Thousands of users create dance videos, cover performances and musical tributes, introducing Bollywood to younger audiences while keeping classic songs alive.
The cultural moments during Modi's Indonesia visit demonstrated that India and Indonesia share a relationship strengthened not only by diplomacy and economic cooperation but also by music, cinema and centuries-old civilizational links. As both countries continue expanding their strategic partnership, these cultural connections remain an important bridge between their people.
