Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his two-day visit to Kuwait, met two Kuwaiti nationals responsible for translating and publishing India’s iconic epics, the Mahabharata and Ramayana, in Arabic.
Modi, who arrived in Kuwait on Saturday at the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, also signed copies of the Arabic versions of the two epics.
This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years, with the last visit by Indira Gandhi in 1981.
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Expressing his appreciation for Abdullah Al-Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al-Nesef, the translators, Modi posted on X, “Happy to see Arabic translations of the Ramayan and Mahabharat. I compliment Abdullah Al-Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al-Nesef for their efforts in translating and publishing it. Their initiative highlights the popularity of Indian culture globally.”
In his Mann Ki Baat radio address in October, Modi had praised their work, calling it "not just a translation, but a bridge between two great cultures. It is developing a new understanding of Indian literature in the Arab world."
Upon arrival in Kuwait, Modi was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence & Interior of Kuwait.
The Indian Prime Minister also met Mangal Sain Handa, a retired Indian Foreign Service officer based in Kuwait, who has made significant contributions to India.
“Delighted to have met Shri @MangalSainHanda Ji in Kuwait this afternoon. I admire his contribution to India and his passion for India's development,”
Modi wrote on X.
On Friday, Handa's granddaughter, Shreya Juneja, had requested the Prime Minister to meet her 101-year-old grandfather.
Modi responded, “Absolutely! I look forward to meeting @MangalSainHanda Ji in Kuwait today.”
The Prime Minister also received a heartwarming welcome from Kuwait’s vibrant Indian diaspora.
“Their energy, love, and unwavering connection to India are truly inspiring. Grateful for their enthusiasm and proud of their contributions to strengthening ties between our nations,” Modi remarked.
During his visit, Modi will attend the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup. India and Kuwait maintain strong bilateral ties, with India being one of Kuwait’s top trading partners. Indian workers make up 21% of Kuwait’s population and 30% of its workforce, particularly in the private and domestic sectors.
Bilateral trade between India and Kuwait reached USD 10.47 billion in 2023-24, with India importing 3% of its energy needs from Kuwait, which is also India’s sixth-largest crude supplier. Indian exports to Kuwait exceeded USD 2 billion for the first time, while investments by the Kuwait Investment Authority in India have surpassed USD 10 billion.
India and Kuwait share a history of friendly relations dating back to pre-oil days, when maritime trade with India formed the backbone of Kuwait’s economy.
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