Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a significant interaction with prominent Indian community leaders in Johannesburg during his visit to South Africa for the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
The meeting underscored the vital role of the Indian diaspora in nurturing cultural ties, promoting mutual understanding, and advancing India’s soft power in the region.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote that he interacted with members of the Indian community actively involved in various organisations across South Africa. He said they shared their experiences on a range of issues and expressed appreciation for India’s progress in multiple fields.
The Prime Minister urged them to continue strengthening people-to-people linkages and to popularise Indian cultural practices such as Yoga and Ayurveda among South Africans. He also encouraged community groups to motivate greater participation in the Bharat Ko Janiye (Know India) Quiz, which helps younger generations connect with their roots.
Interacted with members of the Indian community based in South Africa who are actively working with different community organisations. They shared their experiences on various issues and were very appreciative of India’s strides across different fields. Urged them to keep up the… pic.twitter.com/yGv9Z6tmnp
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 21, 2025
Community Leaders Share Their Experiences
Several leaders described the interaction as inspiring and deeply motivating. Swami Acharya said the meeting was ‘invigorating’, praising the Prime Minister’s leadership and vision.
Swami Abhedananda of Chinmaya Mission South Africa remarked that the discussion was open, warm, and highly fulfilling.
A senior community representative highlighted key themes raised during the meeting.
He said PM Modi asked if community organisations actively supported vernacular languages and emphasised that they could collectively promote tourism to India.
The Prime Minister also emphasised his aspiration for families who have lived in South Africa for several generations to help preserve and promote India’s cultural heritage.
A Symbolic Gesture
In another post, PM Modi shared a special moment from the interaction, where he received a Kalash from the Chinmaya Mission. It contained Shree Anna (millets) from both India and South Africa. He said the offering would be placed at the Annapoorna Devi Temple in Durban, reflecting the shared cultural values that bind the two nations.
While interacting with the Indian community in South Africa, received a Kalash from the Chinmaya Mission, consisting of Shree Anna or millets from India as well as South Africa. This will be placed in the Annapoorna Devi Temple in Durban. pic.twitter.com/GSUSYG8CFQ
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 21, 2025
PM Modi also met the winners of the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz, an initiative designed to deepen diaspora understanding of India’s history, heritage, and culture.
He said the quiz plays an important role in strengthening the emotional and cultural connection between India and its global community.
The Prime Minister’s engagements in Johannesburg reaffirmed India’s commitment to nurturing its centuries-old ties with the vibrant Indian diaspora in South Africa.
His meetings highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in enhancing India’s global presence.
The G20 Leaders’ Summit will take place in Johannesburg on 22–23 November, and PM Modi is set to hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders on the sidelines.
Also Read: PM Modi Praises Indian Diaspora For Heartfelt Reception In Johannesburg
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