PM Modi Meets Translators of Indian Epics During Historic Kuwait Visit

PM Modi meets translators of Ramayana and Mahabharata in Arabic during his historic Kuwait visit, highlighting cultural diplomacy and literary exchange.

on Jan 09, 2025

PM Modi Meets Translators of Indian Epics During Historic Kuwait Visit | Frontlist

Kuwait City: Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his landmark visit to Kuwait by meeting Abdulla Al Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al Nesef, the duo responsible for translating and publishing the Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata in Arabic. During the meeting, PM Modi signed copies of the Arabic versions of the epics and commended their efforts, which he had previously highlighted in his Mann Ki Baat radio program.

Abdul Lateef Al Nesef, the publisher, expressed his excitement:

"It is an honor for me. PM Modi is very happy about this. These books are important, and he even signed them," he said, adding that the translation process took nearly three years.

Al Nesef also noted that the duo has translated over 30 books and epics from around the world into Arabic, underscoring their dedication to cultural exchange.

This visit marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years. PM Modi also had a heartwarming interaction with 101-year-old retired Indian Foreign Service officer Mangal Sain Handa, now residing in Kuwait. The meeting was arranged after Handa's granddaughter, Shreya Juneja, tweeted a heartfelt request for PM Modi to meet her grandfather during his engagement with the Indian diaspora.

In response, PM Modi said he looked forward to the interaction, fulfilling the family’s request.

The visit highlighted cultural diplomacy and celebrated the contributions of individuals fostering a bridge between Indian and Arabic literary traditions.