'Deep Love for Hindi': Tajik Nationals Warmly Welcome Rajnath Singh
Tajik residents welcome Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Dushanbe, sharing their deep affection for the Hindi language and Indian culture.
In a heartwarming display of cultural bonding, several Tajik nationals expressed their profound affection for Tajik nationals love Hindi and Indian culture during the visit of India's Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, to Dushanbe. The Minister arrived in the Tajik capital on Monday evening to represent India at the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), scheduled for October 19–20.
A Surprise Welcome in Hindi
Upon his arrival at the hotel, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was greeted by a spirited crowd consisting of members of the Indian community and local residents. The atmosphere turned electric when several Tajik citizens began greeting the Minister in Hindi, a gesture that left him visibly impressed and delighted.
The interaction highlighted a growing curiosity and respect for Indian linguistic and cultural heritage within Tajikistan, extending beyond official diplomatic channels to the common people.
Bridging Cultures Through Language
Speaking with ANI, local residents shared their personal journeys with the Hindi language. Sabohat Yorova, a university professor who teaches Hindi in Tajikistan, emphasized the strong historical and cultural parallels between the two nations.
"It is a matter of great happiness that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has visited our country and that we have had the opportunity to welcome him," Yorova stated. "Many children here learn Hindi, and many of them also travel to India. The cultures of Tajikistan and India have a lot in common."
Yorova further noted the significance of India's diplomatic support, recalling that India was the first country to recognize Tajikistan as a sovereign nation following its independence. She expressed confidence that these cultural ties would continue to strengthen in the years to come.
A Personal Connection to India
The love for India was equally evident in the words of Shahida Sharafzoda, a Hindi-speaking guide at the National Museum. Sharafzoda’s connection to India is deeply personal, having lived in the country and experienced the warmth of its people firsthand.
"We have a deep love for Hindi and Indian culture, which is why I learned the language," Sharafzoda shared. She revealed that her affinity for India is so strong that her friends often joke she must have been born in India in a previous life. Now, in her professional role at the National Museum, she looks forward to welcoming Indian tourists with the language of their homeland.
The Diplomatic Context
While the emotional exchanges stole the spotlight, the primary purpose of the visit remains strategic. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in Dushanbe to participate in the high-level SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, where key regional issues and governmental collaborations are discussed among member states.