August 31, 2025

Just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in China, the Chinese embassy in India sent a lovely, soft message. On the special occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, the embassy shared dazzling pictures of Lord Ganesha carved during China’s Tang Dynasty and painted in the famous Mogao Caves. "Ganesha’s image can be found in China’s Tang Dynasty and the Mogao Caves! A beautiful reminder of how China and India shared art, faith, and culture centuries ago," wrote Yu Jing, spokesperson of the Chinese embassy in India, on X. This gesture is not just a coincidence. Modi arrived in Tianjin on Saturday evening from Japan. There, he plans to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday for a long-awaited talk. According to a PTI report, sources say there might even be a surprise second round of talks before the official banquet at the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) Summit. The SCO Summit on Monday brings together 10 member countries, and PM Modi will also likely meet Russian President Vladimir Putin before heading back home. This visit is Modi’s first to China in seven years and feels more important than ever. Why so much buzz? India-China relations have been tense recently. At the same time, India’s ties with the US are also a bit strained after former President Donald Trump slapped a heavy 50 percent tariff on Indian exports. While Modi will meet several world leaders during his trip, all eyes are on his talks with Xi Jinping. Leaders in Delhi, Beijing, and across the globe will look closely to see if these two powerful men can find common ground. Starting with the sweet and sacred symbol of ancient Lord Ganesha, this meeting could be the start of new understanding. After all, if the old art shows us anything, it’s that China and India have shared more than just borders—they share deep roots in culture and faith. Will history repeat itself in friendship? That’s the big question everyone will be watching as Modi’s China chapters unfold.

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Tags: Narendra modi, China, Xi jinping, Ganesh chaturthi, Sco summit, India-china relations,