Published: 01:06 AM, 14 September 2026
Anwar Ibrahim expresses his passion for Indian music
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently delighted Indian music lovers by expressing his deep admiration for legendary Indian playback singer Kishore Kumar and his timeless songs during the BRICS summit.
Speaking about his connection with Indian culture and music, Anwar recalled listening to Kishore Kumar's songs and described them as a cherished part of his musical memories. His remarks attracted considerable attention in India, where Kishore Kumar remains one of the most beloved voices in the history of Hindi cinema.
Anwar, known for his interest in literature, culture and the arts, spoke warmly about the emotional appeal of Indian music. He particularly praised Kishore Kumar's distinctive voice and the ability of his songs to convey a wide range of emotions, from romance and happiness to sadness and nostalgia.
Kishore Kumar, who died in 1987, was one of India's most celebrated playback singers and actors. His songs continue to enjoy enormous popularity across generations. Classics such as "Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas," "Mere Sapno Ki Rani," "Roop Tera Mastana" and "Yeh Shaam Mastani" have remained popular among music enthusiasts in India and abroad.
Anwar's appreciation of Kishore Kumar was seen as another example of the strong cultural ties between Malaysia and India. Indian films and music have a significant following in Malaysia, particularly among the country's large Indian-origin population.
The Malaysian premier's comments also generated enthusiasm among Indian audiences on social media, with many users welcoming his affection for Hindi music. His remarks demonstrated how art and music can transcend geographical and political boundaries.
The episode at the BRICS summit added a cultural dimension to the high-level diplomatic gathering. Anwar's fondness for Kishore Kumar's music served as a reminder that shared cultural interests can strengthen friendship and understanding between nations.
>>R R Badhan, AA
