Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a traditional Indonesian musical instrument, the angklung, as a diplomatic gift from Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during his state visit to Jakarta on Tuesday.

According to a statement issued by Indonesia's Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, the gift was presented as part of Indonesia's cultural diplomacy efforts. The angklung, a traditional bamboo musical instrument from West Java, is regarded as a symbol of friendship and Indonesia's cultural heritage.

During the presentation, President Subianto told Prime Minister Modi that the angklung set was "for your collection." Modi accepted the gift and thanked the Indonesian President for the gesture.

The two leaders later shared a light-hearted moment by playing the melody of the title song from the 1998 Bollywood film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai on the angklung set. The performance was highlighted in the official statement released by the Indonesian government.

Earlier in the day, while addressing members of the Indian diaspora in Jakarta, Prime Minister Modi referred to the popularity of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in Indonesia. Using the song as a metaphor for bilateral ties, he said that when India and Indonesia work together, the relationship becomes "much more than just 'kuch kuch' (something)—it becomes 'bahut kuch' (so much more)."

Filmmaker Karan Johar, who directed Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, later shared a video of Modi's remarks on social media, expressing gratitude that the film and its music continue to resonate internationally.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Jakarta on July 6 for an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and Indonesia. Following his engagements in Indonesia, the Prime Minister is scheduled to continue his overseas tour with visits to Australia and New Zealand.

Sources: Hindustan Times