JOIN US'Sholay' song leaves Obama spellbound
The choice of the song was ironic as it marked a new high in India-US relationship. Even though neither the US President and his wife nor most singers of the north-eastern choir group can follow the lyrics due to the language barrier, the song under an open sky set the tone for a perfect ending of Obama’s first India visit.
On the sprawling lawns of Rashtrapati Bhavan’s Mughal Gardens, President Pratibha Patil played a perfect host to the US first couple, personally overseeing the seating and food arrangements. She picked up the spot where the decorative “rangoli” was to be drawn and ensured that the food does not get cold.
Raising the toast to the US President, she said Obama’s visit was a “historic milestone” in the “shared journey” of two nations.
Obama and Michelle could not make it to Agra for the mausoleum of love but they were first overwhelmed by two architectural marvels of the capital–the magnificent Humayan’s tomb on Sunday and by the iconic building atop Raisina Hills a day later.
A glimpse of Indian cultural heritage was showcased to the Obamas. As they settled down on the well-lit lawns, an opera piece in Khasi—presented by Choir group—started the cultural extravaganza of the evening. The choir was followed by traditional welcome song “aavo ni padharo hamare des” by Rajasthani Manganiyar singers from Alwar and Barmer. Deep River—an Afro-American hymn—and “To God be the Glory”—a popular 19th-century hymn composed by William Howard Doane and penned by American lyricist Fanny Crossby—featured in the show. The two songs were apparently chosen as it was felt the Obamas could identify with these hymns personally.
The dignitaries were also shown India’s dancing heritage by a group of six dancers who performed three different forms of classical dance—Kathak, Bharatnatyam and Odissi. The president, however, admitted that Michelle—who displayed her dancing skills in Mumbai—is a better dancer.
As the lavish spread was laid out on the table by the Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen staff, the naval bands played popular film tunes and Stevie Wonder songs. Obama said he was impressed by the strong Indian leadership that women provided—a reference to Patil and UPA president Sonia Gandhi—and the humility of Prime Minister Singh who rose to the high office from a humble beginning.
“You do not visit India, you experience it. because of the diversity, optimism and warmth of its people,” he summed up the tour at the banquet.