'Sir Pe Lal Topi...': Modi Refers To Shailendra's Timeless Classic To Highlight 'Evergreen' India-Russia Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting Russia highlighted the growing India-Russia ties through the popular song "Mera Joota Japani", citing its popularity in both nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Russia, on Tuesday quoted the timeless classic song by lyricist Shailendra "Mera joota Japani" to highlight India and Russia's growing ties. The song, released in 1955, became popular not only in India but also in the Soviet Union, which later split into Russia and 14 other nations. PM Modi also mentioned film-maker Raj Kapoor on whom the song was picturised.

Prime Minister Modi said: "The song was once sung in every household Russia [Moscow]... 'Sir pe lal topi Russi, phir bhi dil hai Hindustani'. This song may have become old, but the sentiments are evergreen. Artists like Raj Kapoor, Mithunda [Chakraborty] have strengthened the friendship between India and Russia..."

He said that the strength of India-Russia relations had been tested on many occasions and every time the friendship of the two nations has emerged stronger. "I would especially like to appreciate the leadership of my dear friend President Putin. He has done a wonderful job of strengthening this partnership for more than two decades. This is the sixth time I have come to Russia in the last 10 years and in these years we have met each other 17 times. All these meetings have increased trust and respect."

India and Russia have been all-weather allies since the Cold War days. The ties strengthened after the Ukraine war when Russia was hit by a wave of sanctions by the West. India, along with China, emerged as one of the largest trade partners of Russia. India, despite repeated requests from the West to slam Russia, has maintained that it would work only in the interests of its own citizens and would not involve itself in the internal affairs of nations. India-Russia trade increased close to $65 billion in the 2023-24 fiscal year, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra had earlier said.

PM Modi also appreciated President Putin's help in getting Indian students stuck in the Ukraine-Russia conflict back home. "I again thank the people of Russia and my friend, President Putin...," PM Modi said.

PM Modi's praise for India-Russia ties and Putin comes on a day when Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy slammed him for hugging the Russian President. Zelenskyy said that this was a "blow to peace efforts" as it came on a day when Russian missile strikes killed 37 Ukrainians, including children.