WATCH: Music meets diplomacy as PM Modi, UK PM Starmer enjoy Indian twist to Ed Sheeran–Arijit Singh hit Sapphire

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Mumbai: The financial capital of India turned into a stage for soft diplomacy on Wednesday evening as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Keir Starmer sat side by side, soaking in a surprise musical performance that perfectly captured the spirit of India–UK friendship.

Watch the video here:

At a cultural event held during Starmer’s visit, musicians presented a soulful Indian rendition of Sapphire, the global hit by British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran and Indian singer-composer Arijit Singh. The reimagined version swapped electric beats for the gentle strum of the sitar and the rhythm of the tabla, giving the pop anthem a rich classical touch.

Sapphire: Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh’s cross-cultural collaboration

PM Modi later shared a video of the performance on X, describing it as “a great example of India–UK cultural partnership.”

Released in June 2025 as part of Sheeran’s eighth album Play, Sapphire is itself a symbol of cross-cultural harmony, blending Sheeran’s Western pop with Arijit Singh’s Punjabi musical influences.

Both leaders seemed visibly delighted as they watched the performance unfold. The moment was a lighter pause amid a visit packed with official discussions. The moment, though brief, summed up the wider message that shared art and ideas often achieve what diplomacy alone cannot.

Starmer’s India visit focuses on trade and culture

Starmer’s two-day trip focuses on strengthening trade, investment, defence, and educational ties under the Vision 2035 roadmap. Earlier, he toured Yash Raj Studios with actor Rani Mukerji and CEO Akshaye Widhani, announcing that Yash Raj Films will shoot three major projects in the UK from 2026. This, Starmer said, is expected to generate over 3,000 jobs.

The evening’s music, much like the visit itself, was a reminder that diplomacy doesn’t always need words. Sometimes, a melody is enough.