Synopsis: A vibrant cultural performance blending India’s Shiva Tandava Stotram with Brazil’s Samba Reggae and Amazonian chants, symbolizing a unique spiritual and cultural confluence warmly welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Brasilia. The Indian Diaspora along with Brazilian performers, created an emotionally stirring atmosphere, described by Vedanta scholar and Padma Shri Jonas Masetti as deeply transformative. ICCR Director Jyoti Kiran Shukla emphasized the significance of this cross-cultural exchange, noting ongoing research into the similarities between Indian Vedic and Amazonian chants. PM Modi expressed his appreciation on social media, acknowledging the diaspora’s strong connection to Indian roots. The Prime Minister arrived in Brasilia after attending the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and is set to meet President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to strengthen bilateral ties.
Brasilia (Brazil), July 8: Recitation of the Shiva Tandava Stotram and energetic beats of Samba Reggae welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Brasilia on the first day of his Brazil Tour.
Padma Shri awardee Jonas Masetti, a respected Vedanta scholar in Brazil, described the event as emotionally profound. “It was a spiritually uplifting experience and a divine moment for all of us. This celebration allowed us to express our heartfelt gratitude to India. The teachings of Vedanta have not only enriched our individual lives but are influencing societal change here. It adds depth, clarity, and purpose to our lives,” he said.
The presentation also incorporated traditional Amazonian chants, creating a rare spiritual blend and revealing intriguing parallels between Indian and Brazilian cultural practices.
Visibly touched by the enthusiastic reception, Prime Minister Modi posted on X, formerly Twitter, saying, “Just arrived in Brasilia. The Indian community here gave a heartwarming welcome—yet another example of the deep-rooted connection our diaspora maintains with Indian traditions.”
PM Modi reached Brasilia after concluding a “very productive” visit to Rio de Janeiro, where he participated in the 17th BRICS Summit. Upon arrival, he was received by Brazil’s Defence Minister, Jose Mucio Monteiro Filho.
During his stay in the capital, the Prime Minister is scheduled to meet President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to hold discussions on various bilateral matters and strengthen India-Brazil ties.
The presentation also incorporated traditional Amazonian chants, creating a rare spiritual blend and revealing intriguing parallels between Indian and Brazilian cultural practices.
Jyoti Kiran Shukla, Director of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), remarked, “This event is a precious offering to the Indian diaspora—a harmonious merging of ancient Vedic mantras. Chants like Shiva Tandava and Shroth from our Vedic tradition were uniquely paired with Amazonian rhythms, highlighting a remarkable spiritual connection between our cultures. At the Vivekananda Centre, we are conducting research into these chants’ similarities, linguistic structures, and historical roots.”
Kenlyn, a yoga practitioner who attended the event, expressed her enthusiasm. “Though I didn’t perform myself, it was an honour to witness my peers presenting for the Prime Minister. It was my first time seeing him, and the experience was powerful—you could feel his presence and genuine compassion,” she said.
One of the performers, a dedicated student of Vedanta for the past decade, shared their thoughts: “Studying under Acharya Jonas Masetti has been life-changing. It was a privilege to chant in front of the Prime Minister once again, reciting mantras that have become a daily part of our spiritual practice.” (Edited)
