New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s poetry took centre stage during his two-day state visit to Uzbekistan from August 29 to 30, drawing enthusiastic praise at official events and academic gatherings in Tashkent. The prime minister’s literary works were celebrated through musical renditions and bilingual recitations by local university students, highlighting deep cultural and linguistic connections between the two nations.
A musical performance based on Modi’s poem Abhi Toh Suraj Uga Hai was featured during an informal dinner hosted in his honour by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The poem, which reflects themes of hope, determination, and overcoming adversity, was also presented by students at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies. Fourth-year student Keldiyorov Dilhushbek recited the verses in Hindi, followed by an Uzbek translation delivered by third-year student Dilshoda Juraboeva.
The students also presented Naye Bharat Ke Naye Sankalp, a poem capturing the aspirational vision of a modern India, recited in Hindi by fourth-year student Otabek Amirov and in Uzbek by third-year student Ikromkhuja Sa’dillaev. A third piece centred on peace, compassion, and human values, Manavta Ko Kahin Na Lag Jaye Daag, was performed in Hindi by Orzu Kuldosheva and in Uzbek by Fayoza Abdurasulova, both third-year students at the university.
Officials noted that the bilingual presentations drew a warm and appreciative response from attendees, underscoring the growing interest in Indian literature, Indology, and language studies in Central Asia.