NEW DELHI/JOHANNESBURG, 22 November (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi was received with a deeply moving and culturally resonant welcome upon his arrival in Johannesburg on Thursday for the G20 Leaders' Summit. The reception was marked by a poignant performance of the South African 'Girmitiya' song ‘Ganga Maiya’ and a devotional presentation of the 'Ganesh Prarthana' by local children, symbolizing the enduring and historic bonds between India and South Africa.

The performance of ‘Ganga Maiya’, which included a rendition in Tamil, was a particularly emotional moment. The song is a powerful cultural artifact of the 'Girmitiyas,' the indentured Indian laborers brought to South Africa by the British in the 19th century to work on sugar plantations.

This historical melody encapsulates the hope, resilience, and unbroken spirit of a community that faced immense hardship but kept India alive in their hearts through such songs and prayers. The Prime Minister described the experience as gladdening and moving, acknowledging the song's role in preserving the cultural connect between the nations.

Adding to the warmth of the welcome, a group of young children from the Indian diaspora delivered a heartfelt rendition of the 'Ganesh Prarthana' and other divine prayers. This act highlighted the successful transmission of cultural and spiritual heritage to the younger generation, affirming the deep-rooted values shared between the two countries.

This warm reception served as the prelude to the Prime Minister's official engagements at the G20 Leaders' Summit, which is being held in Africa for the first time. The tour is focused on strengthening global partnerships and addressing key international issues, and the cultural welcome provided a powerful reminder of the deep, people-to-people ties that form the foundation of the India-South Africa relationship.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar