Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron exchanged warm Holi greetings on Wednesday, highlighting the close friendship between India and France and reflecting the spirit of cultural diplomacy associated with the festival.
President Macron took to X to wish PM Modi in Hindi, writing, “Happy Holi, my friend!”
Responding to the greeting, PM Modi said, “Thanks a lot my friend! On the auspicious occasion of Holi, I wish you and the people of France lots of happiness and prosperity.”
This is not the first time Macron has used Hindi while interacting with Indian audiences. During his visit to India in February, he had captioned a photograph with PM Modi with the phrase “Jai Ho.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also extended greetings, describing Holi as a time to celebrate shared history, heritage and traditions.
Across India, people celebrated Holi with enthusiasm, exchanging sweets, applying colours and offering prayers. The festival, often referred to as the Spring Festival, marks the arrival of spring and the harvest season.
(With agency inputs)
