PM Modi recalls Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in Indonesia, says India partnership means 'bahut kuch'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday lauded the deep cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Indonesia, saying the warmth shown by Indonesians reflects a strong connection with India. Addressing the Indian diaspora in Jakarta, Modi praised Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as "a true friend of India", invoked the popularity of the Bollywood song Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and said the relationship between the two nations has the potential to achieve "bahut kuch" when they move forward together.

'A true friend of India' and a relationship rooted in warmth

Speaking at a community event in Jakarta during his three-day state visit to Indonesia, Prime Minister Modi thanked President Prabowo Subianto for his support and said he was deeply touched by the affection shown by Indonesians.

"I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Prabowo for his words. Excellency, you are a true friend of India. Thank you for being here. I have been overwhelmed by the warmth and affection shown to me by the people of Indonesia; words fall short to describe it...I saw a clear reflection of love, respect, and a deep sense of connection towards India on every face," PM Modi said.

Referring to the enduring popularity of Indian cinema in Indonesia, the Prime Minister noted that the Bollywood classic Kuch Kuch Hota Hai continues to resonate with audiences in the country.

"I noticed that the Bollywood song 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' is very popular here. Today, I told President Prabowo that when India and Indonesia move forward together, it goes far beyond just 'kuch kuch'; it leads to 'bahut kuch'...," he added.

Football fever and a light-hearted 'Man of the Match' remark

With the FIFA World Cup capturing global attention, Modi also spoke about Indonesia's enthusiasm for football, drawing a parallel between his previous visits to the country and the tournament.

"Football fever is sweeping the world these days. Here in Indonesia, too, the passion for football is immense, and it is evident that you have all brought that same energy and enthusiasm with you here. There is also a remarkable coincidence...Whenever I have visited Indonesia, the excitement of the FIFA World Cup has been in the air," he said.

Recalling his earlier visits in 2018 and 2022, Modi credited the Indian community in Indonesia for strengthening bilateral ties.

"The first event took place in Jakarta in 2018, then we met in Bali in 2022, and now, in 2026, we are interacting in Jakarta once again. On all three occasions, the buzz of football has resonated across Indonesia. The "Man of the Match" for all three of these events in Indonesia is the same: all of you living here in Indonesia. You are all the "Man of the Match," he added.

Diaspora outreach and key engagements in Indonesia

Before addressing the Indian community, Prime Minister Modi met members of the Indian diaspora and watched a traditional cultural performance.

His visit to Indonesia includes a series of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. Earlier on Tuesday, Modi held bilateral talks with President Prabowo Subianto and also addressed the Indonesian Parliament as part of his three-day state visit.

(With inputs from ANI)