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PM Modi Welcomed with Gayatri Mantra in Croatia’s Zagreb
Zagreb, Croatia | June 2025 — In a moment that radiated cultural harmony and spiritual symbolism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed in Croatia‘s capital, Zagreb, with the sacred chanting of the Gayatri Mantra. This unprecedented event has gone viral across social media platforms and is being celebrated as a proud moment for the Indian diaspora and a landmark gesture in international diplomacy.
The welcome, which featured the chanting of one of the oldest and most revered Hindu mantras, was conducted by members of the local Croatian community along with the Indian diaspora. It took place upon the Prime Minister’s arrival in the city, marking the start of a significant leg of his Europe visit.
The Significance of the Gayatri Mantra in a Diplomatic Setting
The Gayatri Mantra, a sacred hymn from the Rig Veda, is one of the most spiritually powerful chants in Hinduism. It invokes the divine light of universal knowledge and is traditionally recited to promote wisdom and spiritual clarity. Hearing it chanted in a European capital during a high-level diplomatic visit is both unusual and deeply meaningful.
Source: Mirror Now
This gesture not only honored India’s ancient spiritual traditions but also reinforced India’s growing soft power in international relations. It reflects how India’s cultural heritage is being embraced and respected by countries far beyond its borders.
To understand the significance of the Gayatri Mantra, visit The Art of Living Foundation.
Why PM Modi’s Visit to Croatia Matters
Though relatively small in size, Croatia holds strategic importance in Europe, being a member of both the European Union and NATO. PM Modi’s visit to the country is part of India’s effort to diversify its European partnerships, particularly with nations in Central and Eastern Europe.
This marks the first-ever official visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, signifying a new chapter in bilateral relations between the two nations. Modi’s agenda reportedly includes bilateral talks focused on boosting cooperation in technology, trade, education, climate action, and tourism.
You can learn more about India–Croatia relations from the Ministry of External Affairs.
A Warm Cultural Exchange: Croatia’s Deepening Respect for Indian Traditions
The welcoming ceremony was not limited to protocol—it was deeply cultural. Croatian citizens, some dressed in Indian attire, joined members of the Indian diaspora in a display of multicultural unity. The respectful chanting of the Gayatri Mantra in a foreign land left PM Modi visibly moved and served as a reminder of the global reach of Indian spirituality.
This is not the first time PM Modi has been greeted in culturally rich ways during his foreign tours. However, the spiritual depth of this welcome has particularly struck a chord with Indians worldwide. It signifies the success of India’s ongoing efforts in cultural diplomacy, which has been a cornerstone of the Modi government’s foreign policy.
Read more about India’s soft power approach on the Observer Research Foundation.
The Role of the Indian Diaspora in Croatia
The Indian community in Croatia may be small in number, but it has been an active promoter of Indian culture through activities such as yoga workshops, cultural festivals, and Bollywood dance performances. The Gayatri Mantra chant during the Prime Minister‘s visit was a proud moment for the diaspora, who showcased their cultural roots while bridging diplomatic gaps.
Their participation also highlighted how the Indian diaspora acts as cultural ambassadors, playing a pivotal role in cementing ties between India and countries across the world.
Social Media Reaction: “A Spiritual Diplomatic Moment”
Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube exploded with admiration for the welcome ceremony. Hashtags like #PMModiInCroatia, #GayatriMantra, and #ModiAbroad trended shortly after the video surfaced.
Croatian Indophiles welcome PM Modi with the sacred chanting of the Gayatri Mantra – a great honor to Bharat’s timeless culture and global influence. 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/k6FfW0vaPV
— Namami Bharatam 🚩 (@Namami_Bharatam) June 19, 2025
Source: Namami Bharatam
One user tweeted:
“PM Modi being welcomed with the Gayatri Mantra in Croatia shows the spiritual power India holds. Proud to be Indian!”
Another popular comment read:
“This isn’t just a political moment—this is a civilizational milestone. India’s cultural footprint is growing globally, and it’s beautiful to witness.”
This viral moment is reminiscent of other recent cultural embraces during Modi’s foreign tours, including his interactions in Paris, Tokyo, and New York, where Indian traditions were showcased prominently.
What’s on the Agenda for the Croatia Visit?
PM Modi is expected to engage in one-on-one discussions with Croatian President Zoran Milanović and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.
Key areas of cooperation under discussion include:
- Green energy collaboration
- Digital infrastructure and IT
- Pharmaceutical partnerships
- Academic and student exchange programs
- Defense and maritime cooperation
This visit is also expected to pave the way for more frequent bilateral trade agreements and the simplification of visa policies for Indian businesses and students.
India’s Rising Influence in Central Europe
Croatia is among a growing list of Central and Eastern European countries where India is increasing its diplomatic and economic footprint. With ongoing tensions in other global regions and a shifting geopolitical climate, India is wisely seeking to strengthen its presence in previously under-explored diplomatic corridors.
This strategic outreach not only improves India’s standing in the European Union but also offers potential economic advantages, especially in sectors like renewable energy, agro-technology, and cybersecurity.
Check the latest updates on India-EU relations via the European Council.
PM Modi’s Broader Europe Tour
Following Croatia, PM Modi will continue his multi-nation Europe tour, with scheduled visits to Austria and Italy. These visits are part of a larger effort to recalibrate India’s foreign alliances post the pandemic and amid current global geopolitical realignments.
India aims to establish deeper, multi-sector partnerships with European nations while emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation.
Conclusion:
The moment when PM Modi was welcomed with the Gayatri Mantra in Zagreb was more than a diplomatic photo opportunity—it was a representation of India’s cultural heritage finding global resonance. It stood as a testament to the respect that Indian traditions command across the world, especially when backed by strong leadership and strategic diplomacy.
As India continues to extend its influence across continents, such moments will not only strengthen bilateral ties but also cement its image as a civilizational power rooted in peace, knowledge, and unity.
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