Kishore Kumar At BRICS Summit 2026 – And The World Leaders, Diplomats Who Love His Songs
Key Highlights
- It was another reminder of the extraordinary reach of Hindi film music, and of how songs from India’s golden era continue to connect with audiences far beyond the country’s borders.
- Anwar Ibrahim’s affection for Indian cinema is not new.
- The two performances also underline something distinctive about India’s cultural influence abroad: for many international figures, Hindi cinema is not simply entertainment but a shared cultural memory.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's impromptu performance of Kishore Kumar's "Khwaab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat" at the BRICS gala dinner in New Delhi was more than just a musical interlude – it was a proof to the enduring influence of Hindi film music on global audiences. The 2026 summit marked another chapter in India's cultural diplomacy efforts.
There, songs from its golden era continue to resonate with people far beyond its borders.
Former British High Commissioner India
Former British High Commissioner to India Alex Ellis' rendition of Kishore Kumar's "Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas" on his birthday in August 2023 was a poignant example of how Hindi cinema has become an integral part of international cultural exchange. Ellis' fondness for classic Hindi films, including "Chupke Chupke" and "Sholay", is a proof to the power of Indian cinema to transcend borders and connect with global audiences.
Read More: Sayani Gupta’s Aasmani cleared of copyright infringement allegations by SWA
Former US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti's engagement with Bollywood was marked While not specifically showing Kishore Kumar's music. Garcetti's embrace of Indian music and cinema reflects a broader cultural exchange that is redefining diplomatic relations.

Also Read: Cezanne Khan's TV Return: A Brief Comeback After Kasautii Zindagii Kay
Former German Ambassador India Walter
Former German Ambassador to India Walter J Lindner's musical credentials took an unexpected turn during his tenure. As a musician himself, Lindner collaborated with Indian musicians to create an Indian version of The Scorpions' "Wind of Change", showing the potential for music as a bridge between cultures. His diplomatic role was complemented.
Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai's recollection of studying in Shimla and his familiarity with Indian cinema is a significant example of how Kishore Kumar's music has traversed South Asia. Karzai's listing of Kishore Kumar, Mohammed Rafi, and Lata Mangeshkar among the singers whose music he knew highlights the broader cultural phenomenon that Indian films and songs have become an integral part of regional identity.
What's Your Reaction?
Like
2
Dislike
Love
Funny
Wow
2
Sad
Angry
Comments (0)