RIYADH, July 27: A Saudi national who taught himself Hindi, acted in a Malayalam film, and sang a patriotic Indian anthem for Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emerged as an unlikely but powerful symbol of Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural landscape.

Hashim Abbas, a Saudi actor and cultural enthusiast, first began learning Hindi back in 2008—not out of curiosity, but out of necessity. Working at an Indian IT firm in the Kingdom, he wanted to communicate better with his Indian colleagues. What started as a simple linguistic exercise soon blossomed into a deep love for Indian culture.

“My love for Indian culture started at work, but it quickly grew into something far more personal and meaningful,” Abbas shared.

He soon became more than just a coworker—he was a cultural bridge. Abbas spent time guiding his Indian friends around Saudi Arabia, introducing them to its historical landmarks and cultural treasures.

“I used to take them to different cities, cultural sites and heritage spots,” he recalled.

But it was music that became his true channel of connection. Inspired by the warmth and encouragement of his Indian colleagues, Abbas began singing in Hindi—finding, in the process, a new voice and a new purpose.

“What truly inspired me were my Indian friends,” he said. “Their support was heartfelt and genuine, with no judgment. That made me feel accepted, and it gave me the courage to sing in their beautiful language.”

His passion culminated in a showstopping moment in April 2025 when he performed the emotional Indian patriotic anthem Ae Watan—meaning “My Homeland”—for Prime Minister Modi during the Indian leader’s official visit to the Kingdom.

“I had no idea that a song I had worked on a year earlier would one day be performed for the Indian Prime Minister,” Abbas said. “I poured my heart into it—and even added a few Arabic lines to represent the bond between our nations.”

Abbas had already made waves in 2023 when he landed a role in the Malayalam-language film Kondotty Pooram. His performance marked a rare achievement for Saudi talent in the vast, vibrant world of Indian cinema.

“This role proved that Saudi talent can be recognised even in one of India’s most artistic and linguistically diverse film industries,” he said proudly.

His personal journey is emblematic of Saudi Arabia’s broader shift under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030—a national transformation project aimed at modernising the Kingdom and fostering stronger global cultural ties.

India is a key partner in that vision. With over 1.7 million Indians living and working in Saudi Arabia—making them the second-largest expat community—bilateral relations are expanding rapidly in fields like trade, technology, healthcare, and education.

Abbas says his visits to India, especially the southern state of Kerala, have only deepened his bond with the country. There, he met many Indian expats who once lived in Saudi Arabia—and many of them speak fluent Arabic.

“What touches me the most is how warmly they speak about their time in Saudi Arabia,” he said. “Some even speak Arabic fluently. It shows just how strong our cultural connection truly is.”

Reflecting on how perceptions of Saudi Arabia have shifted over the years, Abbas added: “Like any country, we had stereotypes. But now, thanks to Vision 2030, people are starting to see the real Saudi Arabia: modern, creative, welcoming and full of life.”

“Every time I speak to Indian audiences, I can sense it—they see a new side of our country. And that, to me, is the most beautiful thing.”