PM Modi Lauds Italian Musicians for Performing Indian Classical Raga Hamsadhwani in Rome

Rome, May 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi appreciated Italian artists who welcomed him with a soulful rendition of Indian classical music during his visit to Rome, highlighting the growing cultural connect between India and Italy.

A group of Italian musicians performed the raga Hamsadhwani during a community welcome event held in honour of the Prime Minister. The raga, meaning “the cry of the swan,” is a bright and auspicious pentatonic scale shared by both Carnatic and Hindustani classical traditions. Originating in the 18th century through Carnatic composer Ramaswami Dikshitar, it is traditionally used for invocations and opening musical performances.

Sharing a video of the performance on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote: “Indian music is getting very popular in Italy. During the community welcome in Rome last evening, five Italian artistes performed the Hamsadhwani. Compliments to Mr Valerio Bruni (Santoor), Mr Leo Vertunni (Sitar), Mr Simone Mattiello (Bansuri), Mr Francesco Gherardi (Tabla) and Mr Nicolo Melocchi (Bansuri).”

The performance reflected not only musical excellence but also the deepening appreciation of Indian classical traditions among international artists. The ensemble of Italian musicians blended traditional Indian instruments and compositions with remarkable skill, drawing praise from the Prime Minister.

The participating artists also expressed their excitement and admiration after meeting PM Modi during the event. Francesco Gherardi, who played the tabla, said the Prime Minister was actively engaged throughout the performance. “His participation was there; we could feel it. He was clapping during the performance and gave us a lot of good vibes. We were able to shake hands with him and also had nice pictures together,” he said.

Flutist Simone Mattiello described the experience as highly enjoyable and noted the emotional connection between the performers and the Prime Minister. “Our performance was very joyful, and I think he connected with us. He clapped, so I think he enjoyed it,” he said.

Nicolo Melocchi, another musician, called it a “great opportunity” to perform in front of the Indian leader and interact with him briefly. He said the moment was memorable and inspiring for all the artists involved.

Santoor player Valerio Bruni also shared that PM Modi appeared genuinely enthusiastic during the cultural presentation and appreciated the group’s effort to present Indian classical music in Italy.

The cultural event came as part of PM Modi’s visit to Italy, where he is on the final leg of his five-nation tour. He was warmly received in Rome by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, marking another milestone in strengthening India–Italy relations.

The musical welcome further underscored the growing cultural diplomacy between the two countries, where art, music, and heritage are emerging as strong bridges of mutual understanding and friendship.