Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a memorable Bollywood twist to diplomacy during his address in Jakarta on Wednesday by referencing Shah Rukh Khan’s iconic film ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’.
His light-hearted remark quickly caught the attention of social media, with filmmaker Karan Johar, who directed the 1998 blockbuster, also reacting to the unexpected pop culture nod.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Indonesia on Monday, kicking off his three-nation tour.
After receiving a warm ceremonial welcome, the Prime Minister addressed the Indian diaspora in Jakarta.
While speaking about India-Indonesia relations, PM Modi shared, “Yahan Bharat ka gana Kuch Kuch Hota Hai bahut hi lokpriya hai. Aaj maine is par kaha ki jab Bharat aur Indonesia saath milkar chalte hain, toh ‘Kuch Kuch’ se bhi aage badhkar ‘bahut kuch’ hota hai. (The Indian song Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is immensely popular here. Today, I said that when India and Indonesia move forward together, it leads to much more than just ‘something’—it leads to ‘a lot more’ being achieved.)”
PM Narendra Modi said- Kuch kuch hota hai…
You go to any corner of the world, you will not be able to live without mentioning Shahrukh Khan and his films… India’s identity in many countries of the world is @iamsrk. 🇮🇳👑#ShahRukhKhan @narendramodi #KuchKuchHotaHai pic.twitter.com/fjdPc3B7JB
— Rohit _iamsrk_Fan (Account ) (@RohitBa94893359) July 8, 2026
Featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji, with Salman Khan in a special appearance, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ marked Karan’s directorial debut.
Delighted by Prime Minister’s reference to the film during his Jakarta speech, Karan re-shared the clip on his Instagram Stories and wrote, “Elated and honoured to have our esteemed Prime Minister @narendramodi ji speak about Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in Jakarta. There is indeed a language that transcends all—it’s love. Thank you for embracing and making this song live forever!!!”
Prime Minister’s three-nation tour aims to strengthen India’s ties with key Indo-Pacific partners in areas such as trade, defence, technology, investment and critical minerals.
On July 6, he was welcomed in Jakarta by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
After Indonesia, PM Modi will travel to Australia, followed by New Zealand, the final stop of his tour.