Ramayana, Mahabharata Form The Cultural Bridge Between India And Indonesia: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday highlighted the centuries-old civilisational relationship between India and Indonesia, stating that the two nations share a deep cultural foundation rooted in the legacies of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Addressing the Indonesian Parliament, PM Modi said the partnership extends beyond maritime proximity and reflects enduring historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. He said both countries remain connected through iconic monuments such as Borobudur and Prambanan, Indonesia’s national emblem, Garuda and the traditional Bali Jatra festival.

The Prime Minister joked that it was hard to decide whether Indonesia’s krupuk or India’s papad was crunchier, adding that spices and bumbu unite both cultures. He said Borobudur, Prambanan, Garuda and the Bali Jatra festival continue to connect both nations.

The Prime Minister proposed the Ganga-Mahakam Vision to strengthen bilateral cooperation. He called for deeper ties in development, security, maritime prosperity and the Global South.

PM Modi aligned Viksit Bharat 2047 with Golden Indonesia 2045. He urged stronger cooperation in trade, technology, connectivity and food and energy security.

PM Modi thanked President Prabowo Subianto for the honour. He also thanked the people of Indonesia for the prestigious award.

The Prime Minister said the country’s highest civilian honour reflected the strong friendship and shared values between both nations. He described the recognition as a reflection of shared democratic values and enduring friendship.

The Prime Minister said both leaders would jointly inaugurate the conservation and restoration project at the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta. He invited Indonesians to visit India with their families. He also reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to preserving their shared heritage.

PM Modi said it was an honour to address the Indonesian Parliament. He reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to friendship, cooperation and shared prosperity.

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