PM Modi Meets Manipuri Singer in Israel: ‘An Emotional Moment’

New Delhi, February 27, 2026: In a trip defined by high-level strategic pacts and defense diplomacy, it was a soulful melody from a young woman that provided the most poignant moment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Israel.

Dina Semte, a visually impaired singer born in Manipur and currently residing in Israel, has become an overnight sensation after a video of her meeting with the Prime Minister went viral. Singing a stirring rendition of “I Love My India” from the film Pardes, Dina left the Prime Minister—and the millions watching online—visibly moved.

A Melody That Transcends Borders

The encounter took place during a community reception organized for the Indian diaspora in Israel. As PM Modi took his seat, Dina began her performance. Despite being miles away from her birthplace, her voice carried the unmistakable yearning of the Indian spirit.

Speaking to reporters after the event, an overwhelmed Dina described the experience as a dream come true.

“It was an emotional moment for me. I have always wanted to perform for him. Meeting him felt like being back home in Manipur for a few minutes,” she said.

PM Modi later shared the video on his social media handles, praising Dina’s talent and the “unbreakable bond” that the Indian diaspora maintains with their roots, regardless of where they live.

Who is Dina Semte?

Dina’s story is one of resilience and cultural pride:

• Origin: Born in the scenic hills of Manipur, India.
• Journey: She moved to Israel at the age of 12 with her family.
• Identity: Though she has integrated into Israeli society, she remains deeply connected to her Indian heritage through music.
• Community Role: She is a well-known figure within the Indian-Jewish community in Israel, often performing at cultural events to keep the “Indian-ness” alive in the younger generation.

A Landmark Visit Filled with Sentiment

The meeting with Dina was just one of several human-interest stories emerging from PM Modi’s two-day visit (February 25-26, 2026). While the visit focused on the elevation of ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, the “people-to-people” connection remained front and center.

Strengthening the “Indian Heart” in Israel

The Indian diaspora in Israel, though small, is vibrant and highly influential. Many members, like Dina, expressed that such visits provide a sense of belonging and recognition. For the 1.4 billion people back home, seeing a girl from Manipur represent the nation’s culture on a global stage served as a reminder of India’s soft power and the diversity of its people.

As PM Modi concluded his visit and returned to New Delhi, the video of Dina Semte remains the most shared highlight, proving that while treaties are signed in ink, friendships are forged in emotion.