A Historic Evening of Pride, Unity and Friendship: Indian Diaspora Welcomes Prime Minister Modi in Jakarta
Jakarta, 7 July 2026 — The Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC) came alive on Tuesday evening as more than 3,000 members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India gathered to welcome Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during his official visit to Indonesia. Organized by the Embassy of India, India Club, and a dedicated team of volunteers from across the community, the event was unlike anything the Indian community in Indonesia has witnessed before.
For weeks leading up to the event, registrations had been open exclusively through advance online registration to meet the stringent security and protocol requirements of a VVIP visit. Alongside the registrations, dozens of community members volunteered their time to support the organizing team with logistics, audience management, hospitality and coordination—demonstrating once again the remarkable spirit of volunteerism within Indonesia’s Indian community.
A Celebration of India in Indonesia
The festive atmosphere was evident from the moment guests arrived.
Beginning as early as 3.30 pm, members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India streamed into the Jakarta Convention Center, eager to secure the best seats for what promised to be a historic evening.
The entrance foyer welcomed visitors with impressive replicas of Prambanan Temple, symbolizing the centuries-old civilizational ties between India and Indonesia. Inside the hall, the stage echoed the same architectural motif, while the cutout images of PM Modi and President Prabowo with national flags of India and Indonesia created photo spots, creating a striking visual reminder of the friendship between the two nations.
There was a palpable sense of anticipation. Conversations flowed in multiple Indian languages as old friends reunited and first-time attendees exchanged smiles. The gathering felt less like a formal diplomatic event and more like a grand celebration of India’s enduring presence in Indonesia.
Rishi Singh Sets the Perfect Mood
The evening began with a captivating curtain-raiser by Indian Idol winner Rishi Singh, whose hour-long performance delighted the audience.
From soulful renditions of Arijit Singh favorites to timeless Bollywood classics, Rishi effortlessly connected with the audience. His performances of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Koi Mil Gaya had the entire hall singing along, transforming the formal venue into a joyous musical celebration.
His melodious voice, engaging stage presence and easy rapport with the audience provided the perfect prelude to the arrival of the evening’s distinguished guests.
A Historic Moment
The atmosphere reached its peak as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto entered the auditorium together to a standing ovation.
For many in attendance, seeing the two leaders sharing the same stage was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
President Prabowo’s warm, humorous and deeply personal address drew repeated applause. Declaring himself “a great admirer of Narendra Modi Ji,” he spoke about the close friendship between the two nations, Indonesia’s admiration for India’s democracy, and even joked about discovering “Indian DNA” through a genetic test—remarks that delighted the audience.
Five memorable quotes by President Prabowo:
“I tested my DNA and I found out I had Indian DNA.”
“Maybe most of my ministers… have Indian DNA also.”
“Democracy… is sometimes very messy, but it is the best system for justice, for hope and for inclusiveness.”
“Because there is no copyright, I copied many of his policies.”
“I’m not interfering in Indian domestic politics… but I’m a personal admirer of Shri Narendra Modi Ji.”
Prime Minister Modi responded with equal warmth, describing President Prabowo as “a true friend of India.” Building upon the President’s light-hearted reference to DNA, Modi said the “DNA” of India and Indonesia was composed of mutual trust, shared heritage, common memories and centuries of maritime connections. His address highlighted the deep civilizational bonds between the two countries while outlining India’s remarkable economic transformation and its growing partnership with Indonesia.
Five Memorable Quotes by PM Modi
“The DNA of India–Indonesia relations is built on mutual trust, shared heritage and shared memories.”
“Many countries build relationships through agreements and strategy. India and Indonesia are connected by civilisation.”
“India is not just the fastest-growing economy; it is 1.4 billion aspirations in motion.”
“Reform. Perform. Transform.”
“Bharat aur Indonesia — Mitr Selamanya.” (India and Indonesia — Friends Forever.)
More Than a Diplomatic Event
Throughout the evening, one feeling stood out above all others—community pride.
Many attendees described the gathering as one of the most memorable events ever organized for the Indian community in Indonesia. Others spoke of the privilege of witnessing Prime Minister Modi and President Prabowo together on one stage, describing the occasion as a powerful affirmation of the growing strategic partnership between the world’s largest democracy and the world’s largest Muslim-majority democracy.
Parents proudly watched as young children recited the Brahmanaspati Sukta in Sanskrit, while community members applauded the cultural performances that reflected India’s rich heritage and Indonesia’s deep appreciation of it.
The event also showcased what can be achieved through community collaboration. Behind the scenes, months of meticulous planning by the Embassy of India, India Club, volunteers, sponsors and partner organizations ensured flawless execution of an event of international significance.
A Community Effort
Messages of appreciation poured in after the event, acknowledging the leadership of H.E. Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty, the Embassy of India team, India Club, IndCham, sponsors, event partners and the hundreds of volunteers whose dedication made the evening possible.
Many described it as a volunteer-led event executed with exceptional professionalism—a testament to the strength, unity and organisational capability of Indonesia’s Indian community.
A Night to Remember
As the program concluded, guests departed carrying snack boxes and, more importantly, memories that will last a lifetime.
For those present, it was not simply an opportunity to hear Prime Minister Modi speak. It was an evening that celebrated friendship between two nations, showcased the vibrant spirit of the Indian diaspora, and reaffirmed the deep cultural and strategic bonds linking India and Indonesia.
Long after the applause faded and the lights dimmed, one sentiment echoed throughout the hall:
“I was there.”
