‘Indian Music Getting Very Popular’: PM Modi Lauds Italian Artistes In Rome

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the growing global appeal of Indian classical music after a group of Italian musicians performed the traditional Hamsadhwani raga during his welcome reception in Rome on Tuesday evening.

Sharing a video of the performance on X, Modi said Indian music was “getting very popular in Italy” and applauded the five Italian artistes who presented the rendition. The ensemble featured Valerio Bruni on santoor, Leo Vertunni on sitar, Simone Mattiello and Nicolo Melocchi on bansuri, and Francesco Gherardi on tabla.

Hamsadhwani, a bright and auspicious raga widely used in both Carnatic and Hindustani classical traditions, was originally composed in the 18th century by Carnatic composer Ramaswami Dikshitar and is often performed at the opening of concerts and ceremonial occasions.

The musicians also shared their experience of performing before the Prime Minister, describing the interaction as warm and encouraging. Tabla player Francesco Gherardi said Modi remained engaged throughout the performance, clapping along and greeting the artistes afterward. Simone Mattiello added that the Prime Minister appeared to genuinely connect with the presentation and enjoyed the cultural exchange.

Modi arrived in Rome as part of the final leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour and was welcomed by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The cultural showcase highlighted the increasing international resonance of Indian classical music and its role in strengthening cultural ties between India and Italy.