Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday highlighted the centuries-old civilisational links between India and Indonesia, saying the bilateral relationship is rooted in the shared legacy of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
Addressing the Indonesian Parliament, PM Modi said the two countries were connected not only by the sea but also by history, culture and heritage.
“India and Indonesia do not just share the sea; we also share our history. Our relationship is rooted in the legacy of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata,” he said, referring to cultural landmarks such as Borobudur and Prambanan, Indonesia’s national emblem Garuda, and the Bali Jatra festival as symbols of the enduring bond.
In a lighter moment, PM Modi drew a comparison between Indonesia’s popular snack ‘krupuk’ and India’s ‘papad’, saying it was difficult to decide which was crunchier, while noting that spices and seasonings remain central to the culinary traditions of both countries.
The Prime Minister also recalled the historical maritime links between the two nations, saying traders and Sufi saints from Gujarat travelled to Indonesia centuries ago, bringing with them Islamic traditions and values.
PM Modi said he and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto would visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Prambanan in Yogyakarta on Wednesday to jointly inaugurate a conservation and restoration project at the temple complex.
He said the initiative reflected the two countries’ shared commitment to preserving their common cultural heritage and invited Indonesians to visit India with their families and friends.
Calling it an honour to address the Indonesian Parliament, Prime Minister Modi said India and Indonesia would continue to work together towards a future defined by friendship, cooperation and shared prosperity.
(IANS)
