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Mumbai, Oct 9 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his visiting UK counterpart Keir Starmer watched a mesmerizing classical performance based on Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh’s hit collaborative track “Sapphire” here on Thursday.
The performance, performed by Indian classical musicians, included traditional instruments including sitar, tabla, violin and harmonium, blending Sheeran’s tunes with the soulful essence of Indian classical music.
Sharing a short video of the performance on his official
The event highlighted the growing cultural synergy between the two countries, with PM Modi describing music as a bridge beyond borders.
Released in June 2025 as the third single from Sheeran’s eighth studio album “Play”, “Sapphire” marks the British singer-songwriter’s first collaboration with Indian playback star Arijit Singh.
Celebrated for its blend of Western pop and Punjabi musical influences, the song peaked at number 5 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Sheeran’s 43rd top 10 hit in his home country. It topped India’s IMI International Top 20 Singles chart for a record 16 weeks, underscoring its global popularity.
The concert was organized as part of Prime Minister Starmer’s first official visit to India after assuming office.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi welcomed him at the Raj Bhavan in Mumbai, where the two leaders held discussions aimed at strengthening the India-UK strategic partnership with a focus on trade, technology, education and culture.
As part of her Mumbai engagements, Starmer also visited Yash Raj Studios, where she was welcomed with the iconic Bollywood love anthem “Tujhe Dekha Toh” from the 1995 blockbuster “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol – a cultural moment that symbolizes the emotional connect between Indian cinema and the global audience.
–IANS
SKP/CEO