PM Modi Says : Both Vande Mataram and Ethiopian national anthem refer to our land as Mother

December 17, 2025

Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday highlighted the deep cultural and civilizational ties between India and Ethiopia, drawing parallels between India’s national song Vande Mataram and Ethiopia’s national anthem. He said that both countries consider their land as “mother.”

Shared Sentiment Towards Motherland

Addressing a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament, PM Modi said that the mantra “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas”reflects collective sentiments towards the motherland.
Referring to Vande Mataram and Ethiopia’s national anthem “March Forward, Dear Mother Ethiopia”, he said that both songs view the land as a mother and inspire the protection of heritage, culture, and motherland.

Shared Origin, Shared Future

The Prime Minister said that according to science, the oldest evidence of humankind has been found in Ethiopia. Referring to Lucy or Dinkinesh, he said that it is not just a fossil, but a symbol of humanity’s shared beginnings—whether one lives in Addis Ababa or Ayodhya.

He cited Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, saying that the entire world is one family, beyond politics and borders. If our beginnings are shared, our future should also be shared.

Warm Welcome in Ethiopia

PM Modi said that he feels “at home” in Ethiopia and that it is a privilege to address the Parliament. This is the 18th Parliament in the world where he has addressed it.
Describing Ethiopia as a country of ancient civilization, he said that here the past is respected, the present is purposeful, and the future is welcomed with open arms.

Expressing gratitude for being awarded Ethiopia’s highest civilian honor, the Great Honor Nishan of Ethiopia, the Prime Minister said that he humbly accepts it on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India.