Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Italian musicians who performed Indian classical music during his welcome ceremony in Rome as part of his official visit to Italy.
The Prime Minister highlighted the growing popularity of Indian music in Italy and appreciated the artistes for presenting the traditional Hamsadhwani raga during the cultural event.
Sharing a video of the performance on the social media platform X, PM Modi said Indian music was becoming increasingly popular in Italy. He congratulated the five Italian artistes who performed during the community welcome programme in Rome and acknowledged their dedication to Indian classical traditions.
The performers included Valerio Bruni on Santoor, Leo Vertunni on Sitar, Simone Mattiello and Nicolo Melocchi on Bansuri, and Francesco Gherardi on Tabla.
Their performance centred around Hamsadhwani, a bright and auspicious pentatonic raga widely used in both Carnatic and Hindustani classical music traditions.
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)… pic.twitter.com/8uek9XaiGO
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 20, 2026
Carnatic composer Ramaswami Dikshitar created the Hamsadhwani raga in the 18th century, and musicians widely use it to open concerts and devotional performances.
The Italian musicians expressed happiness after meeting PM Modi during the event.
Tabla player Francesco Gherardi said the Prime Minister applauded the performance and appreciated the artistes’ efforts.
Simone Mattiello described the presentation as joyful, while Nicolo Melocchi called it a memorable experience.
Valerio Bruni said PM Modi showed genuine enthusiasm during the cultural programme.
PM Modi arrived in Rome on Tuesday for the final leg of his five-nation tour and was warmly welcomed by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
During the visit, PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with Meloni and meet Italian President Sergio Mattarella as India and Italy continue expanding cooperation under the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029.
Also Read: PM Modi Visits Historic Colosseum In Rome With Giorgia Meloni
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