India changed since Raj Kapoor’s era but friendship remains: Putin
As the world continues to evolve and change, some things remain constant, and for India and Russia, that constant is their enduring friendship. Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his recent visit to India, invoked the legacy of the legendary Indian filmmaker Raj Kapoor to emphasize the strong bond between the two nations. Putin’s statement not only highlighted the significance of Raj Kapoor’s films in the USSR but also underscored the shared commitment to cooperation that has been a hallmark of India-Russia relations.
Raj Kapoor, often referred to as the “Clark Gable of the Indian screen,” was a renowned filmmaker, actor, and producer who left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His films, such as ‘Awaara’ (1951), ‘Shree 420’ (1955), and ‘Mera Naam Joker’ (1970), were not only incredibly popular in India but also gained a massive following in the USSR. In fact, Raj Kapoor’s films were among the first Indian movies to gain widespread popularity in the Soviet Union, and his songs, such as “Awara Hoon” and “Mera Joota Hai Japani,” became household names.
Putin, during his visit, noted that India’s economy has undergone a dramatic transformation since Raj Kapoor’s era. The country has made significant strides in various sectors, including technology, manufacturing, and services, and has emerged as a major player on the global stage. However, despite these changes, one thing has remained constant: the friendship and shared commitment to cooperation between India and Russia.
The India-Russia friendship has a long and storied history, dating back to the Soviet era. The two nations have cooperated on a wide range of issues, including defense, energy, and space exploration. Russia has been one of India’s most reliable partners, providing critical support and assistance in various fields. The two nations have also collaborated on several high-profile projects, including the development of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the construction of the Kudankulam nuclear power plant.
Raj Kapoor’s films, in many ways, played a significant role in fostering people-to-people contacts between India and the USSR. His movies, which often dealt with themes of love, friendship, and social justice, resonated with Soviet audiences and helped to promote a positive image of India. The popularity of Raj Kapoor’s films in the USSR also paved the way for other Indian filmmakers, who were able to tap into the vast Soviet market and showcase their work to a wider audience.
Putin’s statement highlighting the enduring friendship between India and Russia is significant, given the current global context. The world is witnessing a period of great uncertainty and flux, with nations increasingly turning inward and adopting protectionist policies. In this environment, the India-Russia friendship stands out as a beacon of hope and cooperation. The two nations have consistently demonstrated their commitment to working together, despite the challenges and complexities of the modern world.
The India-Russia friendship has also been marked by a deep cultural exchange, with both nations benefiting from each other’s rich cultural heritage. Indian classical music and dance have been incredibly popular in Russia, with many Russian artists and performers drawing inspiration from Indian traditions. Similarly, Russian literature and art have had a profound impact on Indian culture, with many Indian writers and artists being influenced by the works of Russian masters such as Leo Tolstoy and Fyodor Dostoevsky.
As India and Russia continue to navigate the complexities of the modern world, their friendship remains a constant source of strength and inspiration. The two nations have much to learn from each other, and their cooperation has the potential to drive growth and development in a wide range of areas. Whether it is in the field of defense, energy, or space exploration, India and Russia have consistently demonstrated their ability to work together and achieve great things.
In conclusion, Putin’s statement invoking Raj Kapoor’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the enduring friendship between India and Russia. Despite the many changes that have taken place in India since Raj Kapoor’s era, one thing has remained constant: the friendship and shared commitment to cooperation between the two nations. As the world continues to evolve and change, the India-Russia friendship remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of cooperation and collaboration.
News Source: https://x.com/DDNewslive/status/1997262500354744821
About the Author
