“South Africa and India are intertwined through a sense of cultural kinship and affinity and of course our shared history,” said internationally renowned South African-Indian choreographer Jayesperi Moopen, who is coordinating the entertainment function for the welcome reception for Modi here on July 8.
“This shared history and heritage has created unique dance forms in the 156-year history of Indian South Africans, where classical movements of Bharatanatyam and Kathak have fused with the traditional rhythms of Africa dance, bringing together synergies of these rich heritages,” Moopen said.
“This visit is a timely one for South Africa, the African continent and India, as for the very first time, an Indian head of state will address a public gathering of this magnitude on South African soil,” said Raman Dhawan, the chairman of the South Africa Welcomes Modi Committee, comprising a host of community organisations and volunteers.