Japan PM Takaichi Charms India With Santoor Attempt Beside PM Modi

A cultural moment during Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's official visit to India has captured widespread attention after she was seen trying to play the traditional Indian musical instrument, the santoor. The interaction took place in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and was shared by the Indian Prime Minister on social media. The video quickly gained traction online, drawing millions of views and thousands of reactions from users across the world.

The short clip shows Prime Minister Takaichi attempting to play the santoor while Prime Minister Modi looks on during the official engagement. Sharing the video on social media, PM Modi wrote, "Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi trying her hand at Indian music!" The post rapidly went viral, receiving nearly 23 million views within a short period and becoming one of the most widely shared moments from the India-Japan visit.

Social media users responded positively to the interaction, describing it as a symbol of the warm relationship between India and Japan. Many praised the Japanese Prime Minister's willingness to experience an element of Indian culture, while others appreciated the informal and friendly exchange between the two leaders. Comments such as "Wow" and "Awesome" were widely shared, with several users highlighting the cultural significance of the gesture.

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The reactions also referred to remarks made by Prime Minister Modi during the joint press briefing held after the India-Japan Annual Summit. During the media interaction, Modi referred to Prime Minister Takaichi as his "Choti Behen" or "younger sister," a statement that prompted many online users to describe the relationship between the two leaders as one marked by warmth and mutual respect. The phrase was widely quoted alongside the viral video.

The India-Japan Annual Summit focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation across a range of sectors, including trade, technology, infrastructure, security and cultural exchanges. Alongside official discussions, the leaders also participated in events showcasing India's cultural heritage, underlining the importance both countries place on strengthening people-to-people ties in addition to strategic cooperation.

The viral santoor performance has emerged as one of the most memorable moments of the visit, reflecting how cultural interactions often resonate beyond formal diplomatic engagements. As the video continues to circulate widely on social media, it has highlighted the role of cultural diplomacy in reinforcing the close and growing partnership between India and Japan.

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