PM Modi's Historic Visit to Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine recalls the shooting of 'Naatu Naatu' from RRR at President Zelenskyy's residence. The song later gained global acclaim, including an Academy Award. Modi's visit included tributes to children lost in conflict and Mahatma Gandhi's peace message.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Ukraine, it serves as a poignant reminder of a notable event in the nation's recent history. Just a few years ago, the acclaimed song 'Naatu Naatu' from the film RRR was filmed at President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's official residence, months before the region was engulfed in conflict.

The song has since become a global phenomenon, clinching the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2023 and earning a Golden Globe, marking a historic achievement for any Asian song. During his visit, Modi toured the multimedia Martyrologist exposition on children at the National Museum of History of Ukraine in Kyiv, accompanied by President Zelenskyy.

Prime Minister Modi was visibly moved by the tribute dedicated to children who have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict. He expressed his profound sorrow and laid a toy in their honor, as stated in a press release by the Ministry of External Affairs. Earlier in the day, Modi paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at a statue in Kyiv, emphasizing the enduring significance of Gandhi's message of peace for fostering a harmonious society.

The Prime Minister stressed the timeless importance of Gandhi's teachings, noting that they offer solutions to contemporary global issues. Mahatma Gandhi's statue in Kyiv's 'Oasis of Peace' park stands as a symbol of hope and tranquility for humanity. Modi also shared a picture on his social media handle, stating, "Paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi in Kyiv. The ideals of Bapu are universal and give hope to millions. May we all follow the path he showed to humanity."

Notably, PM Narendra Modi's arrival in Kyiv on Friday morning marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine. This visit holds significant importance as it comes amid an ongoing conflict in the region. Upon his arrival at the Hyatt Hotel in Kyiv, Modi received an enthusiastic welcome from the Indian community, including many students eagerly awaiting his presence.

(With inputs from agencies.)