Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: PRIME Minister Narendra Modi and his visiting UK counterpart Keir Starmer witnessed a mesmerising classical performance based on “Sapphire”, the hit collaborative track by Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh, in Mumbai on October 9.
The rendition, performed by Indian classical musicians, featured traditional instruments including the sitar, tabla, violin, and harmonium, blending Sheeran’s melody with the soulful essence of Indian classical music. Sharing a short video of the performance on his official X handle, Prime Minister Modi wrote, “Wonderful rendition of Ed Sheeran & Arijit Singh’s ‘Sapphire’, which is a great example of IndiaUK cultural partnership!” The event highlighted the growing cultural synergy between the two countries, with PM Modi describing music as a bridge that transcends borders.
Released in June 2025 as the third single from Sheeran’s eighth studio album “Play”, “Sapphire” marks the British singer-songwriter’s first-ever collaboration with Indian playback star Arijit Singh.
The song, celebrated for its fusion of Western pop and Punjabi musical influences, peaked at No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Sheeran’s 43rd Top 10 hit in his home country. It also topped India’s IMI International Top 20 Singles Chart for a record 16 weeks, underscoring its global popularity.
