Kathak to Garba: Indian diaspora stuns PM Modi with grand welcome in Amsterdam

Sharing glimpses of the warm welcome on his X handle, Modi posted multiple images of Indian community members greeting him with cultural performances showcasing India’s rich classical and folk traditions, including Kathak, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, and Garba.

Delighted to interact with the Indian community in The Hague. Their warmth, achievements and strong bond with India continue to make us proud. https://t.co/DVKQo1pKXw

Reflecting on the reception, Modi wrote: “Yesterday’s reception by the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands was very special. The reception included a dance performance featuring Kathak, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam. There was also a Garba performance.”

In a short while from now, will be addressing a community programme in The Hague, Netherlands. It’s always a delight to interact with the Indian diaspora. pic.twitter.com/zbwQ36G6qN

He later added: “Here are a few more atmospheric impressions of the warm welcome by the Indian community in the Netherlands.”

Hierbij nog een paar sfeerimpressies van de hartelijke ontvangst door de Indiase gemeenschap in Nederland. pic.twitter.com/yBCFR7zAY0

Modi landed at Amsterdam Airport on Friday, where he was formally welcomed by senior Dutch officials, including Rear Admiral Ludger Brummelaar, Adjutant-General and Chief of the Military Household of His Majesty the King; Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen; and India’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Kumar Tuhin.

De ontvangst gisteren, van de Indiase diaspora in Nederland, was bijzonder. De ontvangst omvatte een dansvoorstelling met Kathak, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi en Mohiniyattam. Ook was er een Garba voorstelling. pic.twitter.com/oeTh1Uq7Yv

Describing his interaction with the Indian diaspora as “delightful,” Modi highlighted the significance of the visit, noting its timing alongside growing India-European trade momentum.

“Landed in Amsterdam. This visit to the Netherlands comes at a time when the India-EU Free Trade Agreement has given a major impetus to trade and investment linkages. It offers an opportunity to deepen relations in areas like semiconductors, water, clean energy and more,” he posted after arrival.

During the visit, Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and call on Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima.

The Netherlands visit follows Modi’s UAE trip, during which India and the UAE signed several strategic agreements spanning energy, defence, strategic petroleum reserves, and liquefied petroleum gas supply, further strengthening bilateral ties with President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.