Kathak to Garba: Indian diaspora stuns PM Modi with grand welcome in Amsterdam

Sharing glimpses of the warm welcome on his X handle, Modi posted multiple images of Indian community members greeting him with cultural performances showcasing India’s rich classical and folk traditions, including Kathak, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, and Garba.

Reflecting on the reception, Modi wrote: “Yesterday’s reception by the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands was very special. The reception included a dance performance featuring Kathak, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam. There was also a Garba performance.”

He later added: “Here are a few more atmospheric impressions of the warm welcome by the Indian community in the Netherlands.”

Modi landed at Amsterdam Airport on Friday, where he was formally welcomed by senior Dutch officials, including Rear Admiral Ludger Brummelaar, Adjutant-General and Chief of the Military Household of His Majesty the King; Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen; and India’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Kumar Tuhin.

Describing his interaction with the Indian diaspora as “delightful,” Modi highlighted the significance of the visit, noting its timing alongside growing India-European trade momentum.

“Landed in Amsterdam. This visit to the Netherlands comes at a time when the India-EU Free Trade Agreement has given a major impetus to trade and investment linkages. It offers an opportunity to deepen relations in areas like semiconductors, water, clean energy and more,” he posted after arrival.

During the visit, Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and call on Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima.

The Netherlands visit follows Modi’s UAE trip, during which India and the UAE signed several strategic agreements spanning energy, defence, strategic petroleum reserves, and liquefied petroleum gas supply, further strengthening bilateral ties with President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.