News Desk - Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm cultural welcome in Bratislava, Slovakia, as Slovak nationals greeted India's first Prime Minister to visit the country with a stirring rendition of Vande Mataram and traditional folk dance performances. The historic visit marks the first time any Indian Prime Minister has toured Slovakia since its independence in 1993, with Modi beginning the second leg of his European tour amid a colorful display of Slovak traditions and cultural heritage.

The renowned Lúčnica Ensemble performed a moving chorus of India's national song "Vande Mataram" at a hotel in Bratislava, honoring the Prime Minister during the welcome ceremony. The group, known for its rich cultural artistry, had also performed the Indian national anthem during President of India's visit to Slovakia in 2025, reflecting the deep cultural goodwill between the two nations. Adding to the cultural celebration, PM Modi watched a traditional Slovak folk dance performance by Kopaniciarik, a children's ensemble from the Myjava region, dressed in vibrant traditional Slovak attire.

The reception included Slovakia's highest symbol of hospitality - the traditional offering of bread and salt - as Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar greeted the Indian leader. Modi also witnessed a spiritual performance by the Mahadeva Kirtan Projekt, a local Slovakian musical group highlighting unique cultural exchange between the two nations. Sharing a video on X, PM Modi highlighted the Lúčnica Ensemble's Vande Mataram performance, noting the emotional atmosphere created by the Slovak cultural group's moving rendition of India's national song.

As PM Modi prepares for meaningful meetings with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Fico, the cultural welcome sets the tone for the landmark bilateral visit aimed at deepening India-Slovakia relations and exploring new avenues of cooperation. The historic visit demonstrates the strong cultural ties and mutual respect between India and Slovakia, with Slovak artists going to extraordinary lengths to honor the Indian Prime Minister's maiden visit to their country.