Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his visiting UK counterpart Keir Starmer were treated to a mesmerising classical performance of ‘Sapphire’, the popular collaborative track by Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh, on Thursday.
Performed by Indian classical musicians, the rendition blended Sheeran’s melody with traditional instruments including the sitar, tabla, violin, and harmonium, creating a fusion that celebrated both Western and Indian musical heritage.
Sharing a clip of the performance on X, PM Modi described it as a ‘wonderful rendition’ and praised it as an example of the growing cultural partnership between India and the United Kingdom.
The event highlighted the strengthening cultural synergy between the two nations, with PM Modi describing music as a bridge that transcends borders.
“It is through shared artistic experiences like this that our countries deepen mutual understanding and appreciation,” he added.
Released in June 2025 as the third single from Sheeran’s eighth studio album Play, ‘Sapphire’ marks his first collaboration with Indian playback singer Arijit Singh.
Celebrated for its fusion of Western pop and Punjabi musical influences, the song peaked at No 5 on the UK Singles Chart and topped India’s IMI International Top 20 Singles Chart for 16 weeks.
The concert formed part of Prime Minister Starmer’s first official visit to India after assuming office. Earlier in the day, PM Modi welcomed him at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, and they held talks to strengthen India-UK strategic ties, focusing on trade, technology, education, and culture.
Starmer also visited Yash Raj Studios, where officials greeted him with the iconic Bollywood song ‘Tujhe Dekha To’ from the 1995 blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, symbolising the emotional connect of Indian cinema with global audiences.
The performance of ‘Sapphire’ and the visit to Yash Raj Studios together underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy in enhancing India-UK relations.
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