Rajasthani folk culture – Dhoad Gypsies and Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band alongwith Bollywood Masala Orchestra performed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Paris visit on June 18. Led by Rahis Bharti, the artists showcased Indian folk culture, strengthening cultural diplomacy between India and France.
Quick Glance
- Dhoad Gypsies of Rajasthan performed at PM Modi’s welcome programme in Paris.
- Rahis Bharti and Afridi Bhartiya represented India’s traditional folk music globally.
- Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band performed the patriotic song “Ae Watan”.
- Indian folk art emerged as a key symbol of cultural diplomacy during the France visit.
Agartala/New Delhi: The vibrant sounds of Rajasthan reached the heart of Paris as the Dhoad Gypsies became the centre of a cultural celebration during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France. The traditional music group added colour, energy and emotion to the welcome programme organised for the Prime Minister and the Indian diaspora.
The performance highlighted India’s diverse cultural identity on an international platform. It also showed how folk traditions can become a bridge between countries.
Led by cultural artist Rahis Bharti, the Dhoad Gypsies performed along with the Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band and Bollywood Masala Orchestra. The artists represented the artistic heritage of Rajasthan before a global audience in Paris.
Dhoad Gypsies Bring Rajasthan’s Heritage to Global Stage
The Dhoad Gypsies are known for presenting Rajasthan’s traditional sounds with a modern international approach. Their music combines folk vocals, traditional instruments and global influences.
Over the years, the group has introduced Rajasthan’s musical traditions to audiences across Europe and other parts of the world. Their performances have helped position Indian folk art as a powerful tool for cultural exchange.
Rahis Bharti said the opportunity to perform during Prime Minister Modi’s welcome programme was a special honour.
“Today is a very special day for all of us. We were honoured to participate in the welcome ceremony for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Our entire Dhoad Group is here, and we have also been invited by the Embassy of India to perform at the Prime Minister’s programme,” Bharti said.
The performance reflected the journey of Indian folk artists from local cultural spaces to major international events.
Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band Adds Patriotic Touch
The Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band created another memorable moment during the programme. The group performed the patriotic song “Ae Watan”, adding an emotional connection to the event.
Afridi Bhartiya, a member of the Dhoad Group, said the experience was deeply moving.
“When Prime Minister Modi arrived, it felt as though a member of our own family had come. We are extremely proud to have performed for him today. Our Jaipur Maharaja Band played the patriotic song ‘Ae Watan’, making the occasion even more special,” he said.
The performance connected the Indian diaspora in France with the cultural memories of their homeland.
Folk Art Becomes a Tool of Cultural Diplomacy
Indian folk music is increasingly becoming an important part of international cultural diplomacy. Artists from different regions represent India’s traditions and create cultural connections beyond borders.
The Paris event showed how Rajasthan’s music can support diplomatic engagement. The artists acted as cultural ambassadors by presenting India’s heritage in a global setting.
Rajasthan’s folk traditions are known for powerful rhythms, storytelling, traditional instruments and colourful performances. These elements help audiences experience India’s cultural diversity.
The event also highlighted the role of regional art forms in strengthening people-to-people connections between India and France.
PM Modi’s France Visit Brings Indian Diaspora Together
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Paris brought together members of the Indian community living in France. Many diaspora members expressed happiness after meeting him and witnessing the cultural programme.
Several members said the event created a strong emotional connection with India.
One diaspora member said the Prime Minister’s presence felt like a family member visiting them abroad.
“All of us are very emotional. Indians here are deeply touched by his visit. It feels as though someone from our own family has come here,” the person said.
The Indian community also highlighted the growing India-France relationship in areas such as education, innovation and cultural cooperation.
India-France Partnership and Cultural Exchange
PM Modi arrived in Paris after attending the G7 Summit 2026 in Evian. During the visit, he discussed global issues, governance and the importance of cooperation with the Global South.
The Prime Minister also appreciated the role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening ties between India and France.
The cultural programme added a different dimension to the diplomatic visit. While discussions focused on international cooperation, Rajasthan’s folk melodies represented India’s cultural strength.
Cultural Showcase Highlights
| Cultural Group | Representative | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Dhoad Gypsies of Rajasthan | Rahis Bharti | Traditional Rajasthani folk music |
| Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band | Afridi Bhartiya and team | Patriotic performance of “Ae Watan” |
| Bollywood Masala Orchestra | Cultural performers | Fusion-based Indian musical presentation |
Why Dhoad Gypsies Matter in Global Cultural Representation
The Paris performance underlined the growing importance of Indian regional art on international platforms. Groups like the Dhoad Gypsies carry local traditions to global audiences.
Their music represents Rajasthan’s heritage while creating new cultural conversations worldwide.
From Rajasthan’s desert landscapes to Paris, the folk beats carried a message of identity, friendship and cultural pride.
People Also Ask
Q1. Who performed during PM Modi’s welcome programme in Paris?
The Dhoad Gypsies of Rajasthan, Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band and Bollywood Masala Orchestra performed during the programme.
Q2. Who leads the Dhoad Gypsies?
Rahis Bharti leads the Dhoad Gypsies and promotes Rajasthan’s folk music internationally.
Q3. How does folk music support cultural diplomacy?
Folk music helps countries share their heritage and build cultural connections with international audiences. (With IANS inputs)