During the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9, a performance of the popular Hindi song "Mera Joota Hai Japani" resonated with attendees. Sanjay Seth, the Minister of State for Defence, who was present at the event representing India, shared a video of the performance on social media.
Seth highlighted the song's global appeal and its ability to connect people across borders. He noted that the performance, which took place at President Vladimir Putin's residence, was attended by heads of state from various countries. Seth emphasized that the rendition by Russian artists underscored India's growing cultural influence on the international stage. He stated that the song had brought many hearts together and exemplified how Hindi music transcends geographical boundaries.
The song "Mera Joota Hai Japani," originally featured in the 1955 film "Shree 420," starring Raj Kapoor, has become a symbol of India's soft power and cultural outreach.
Sanjay Seth's presence in Moscow for the Victory Day celebrations, commemorating the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, also served to strengthen the bilateral ties between India and Russia. He was received by Ambassador Vinay Kumar and Major General Oleg Molessev of the Russian Defence Ministry upon his arrival.
During his visit, Seth met with President Vladimir Putin and expressed gratitude for Russia's support in India's fight against cross-border terrorism. He also held a bilateral meeting with Russian Deputy Defence Minister Colonel General Alexander Fomin to discuss military and technical cooperation, agreeing to deepen relations within existing institutional frameworks. Both India and Russia will continue regular consultations and enhance mutual cooperation.
Initially, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to attend the Victory Day celebrations, but due to the terror incident in Pahalgam, Sanjay Seth was sent to represent India. The visit aimed to further solidify the special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia.
