“Saare Jahan Se Achha” played at White House

| Updated: 17 May, 2024 3:27 pm IST

New Delhi: The legendary song, “Saare Jahan Se Achha” was played by a famous Marine Band at the White House on May 13. This performance was part of the annual Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month reception. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were also present during this event.

“Saare Jahan Se Achha” was written by Sir Muhammad Iqbal and published in 1904. It gained prominence during the independence movement in the 1930s, particularly favoured by Mahatma Gandhi.

Every May, the United States celebrates Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. This event recognizes and honors the contributions, achievements, and cultural heritage of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.

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Throughout May, various events and activities are organized across the USA, including cultural performances, educational programs, art exhibitions, film screenings, and community festivals. These events aim to celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of AANHPI communities.

Later this year, the USA will hold its next presidential election. The Indian diaspora, comprising about 5 million people, plays a significant role during elections. Indian American community leader Ajay Jain Bhutaniya, in an interaction with the media, noted that this was the second time this year that the song was played at the White House. It was also played during Prime Minister Modi’s last state visit in June.

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Bhutaniya also discussed the growing India-US relationship at all levels, including people-to-people ties, business-to-business connections, and government-to-government interactions.

In 2022, India’s exports to the US amounted to $188.53 billion, while imports from the US were $72.9 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $45.63 billion for India. Total bilateral trade between India and US is $191.43 billion. During 2022-23, US was the third largest source of Foreign Direct Investment into India with inflow of $6.04 billion accounting for almost 9% of total FDI equity inflows.

President Biden visited India last year during the G20 global summit.

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