New Delhi: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto who was the chief guest at India’s 76th Republic Day parade spoke about his new found India roots during the dinner hosted by resident Droupadi Murmu, leaving everyone including Prime Minister Narendra Modi in splits.
His presence at this year’s parade came 75 years after Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, attended India’s first Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest in 1950. During the celebrations on Sunday, he witnessed India’s military parade and cultural performances along with President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and several other dignitaries at Kartavya Pathin the national capital.
‘Had my genetic sequencing tested recently’: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto
Speaking at the Rashtrapati Bhawan during the dinner he said, “A few days back, I had my genetic sequencing tested. The test revealed I have Indian DNA. Everybody knows that when I listen to Indian music, I start dancing. The same must be a part of my Indian DNA.” His remarks left the guests including PM Modi and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in splits.
#WATCH | Delhi | “…A few weeks ago I had my genetic sequencing test and my DNA test and they told me that I have Indian DNA. Everybody knows when I hear Indian music, I start dancing…”, says Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto at the banquet hosted by President Droupadi… pic.twitter.com/N7f0EpLamZ
— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2025
Subianto added, “He said, “India and Indonesia have a long, ancient history together. We have civilizational links, even now an essential part of our language comes from Sanskrit. Many names of Indonesia are Sanskrit names and in our daily life, the influence of ancient Indian civilization is powerful. I think it’s also part of our genetics.”
Subianto expresses admiration for PM Modi
The Indonesian President also expressed his admiration for PM Modi’s leadership. Calling it ‘inspiration’ he added, “I am extremely proud to be in India. I am not a professional politician, nor am I a good diplomat. I say what is there in my heart. I came to India for a few days, but have learned a lot from PM Modi’s leadership.”
