G7 Summit 2024: Italy PM Meloni Greets Guests With ‘Namaste', Internet Is Totally In Awe Of Her Desi Style

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, hosting this year's Group of Seven (G7) summit, was seen doing a namaste gesture while greeting leaders. In viral videos on the platform X, Meloni greeted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen with the gesture.

The videos have attracted much attention, with 'namaste' trending on the platform. Many users praised Meloni's gesture. One user wrote, "Namaste goes Global. Italian PM Giorgia Meloni greets guests of the G7 summit with Namaste." Another commented, "Sanskaari Kanya ❤️ using namaste for swaagat."

Others appreciated the cultural significance, with one user saying, "That's such a nice gesture. It shows our culture being celebrated." A scientific explanation was also noted, "It is the most scientific way to greet, when we say I bow to the god in you. No transfer of bacteria from one hand to another, while shaking your hand."

G7 Summit In Italy

Leaders from the G7 countries-Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States-are meeting for a three-day summit from June 13 to 15 in the southern Italian region of Puglia (Apulia). Prime Minister Modi is attending the summit and has departed for Italy on Thursday.

"I will be attending the G7 Summit in Italy. I look forward to meeting fellow world leaders and discussing a wide range of issues aimed at making our planet better and improving lives of people," PM Modi shared earlier today.

The summit is being held at the luxury resort of Borgo Egnazia in Fasano. This marks PM Modi's first foreign visit since winning a third term in the 2024 Lok Sabha election.

Significance of Namaste In Indian Culture

In Indian culture, few gestures are as ubiquitous and deeply meaningful as "Namaste." More than just a way to greet someone, Namaste encapsulates a wealth of cultural, spiritual, and social significance. This simple yet profound gesture reflects the essence of Indian values, emphasizing respect, humility, and the interconnectedness of all beings. In this article, we will explore Namaste's origins, meanings, and cultural importance, shedding light on why this ancient practice remains relevant in modern times.

Namaste is a common greeting in India and neighboring countries, often accompanied by a slight bow and hands pressed together in a prayer-like position. While many people around the world are familiar with this gesture, few understand its deep roots and the layers of meaning it carries. Derived from Sanskrit, Namaste combines "namaḥ" (meaning bow) and "te" (meaning to you), translating to "I bow to you." This greeting is more than a polite salutation; it is a gesture that conveys deep respect and acknowledges the divine presence in each individual.

Origin Of Namaste

The practice of Namaste has ancient origins, rooted in the spiritual and cultural traditions of India. It is mentioned in ancient scriptures, including the Vedas, which are some of the oldest texts in human history. The gesture is associated with the concept of "Namaskar," which means to pay homage or offer reverence. Historically, it has been used in various contexts, from daily interactions to religious ceremonies, signifying its versatility and deep cultural integration.

Spiritual Significance Of Namaste

At its core, Namaste is a recognition of the divine spark within each person. It is a way of acknowledging that we are all connected and that each individual harbors a piece of the divine. This concept is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy, where the belief in the presence of divinity in every being is fundamental. By performing Namaste, one is essentially saying, "The divine in me honors the divine in you."

Role Of Namaste In Yoga

In the practice of yoga, Namaste is a gesture of respect and humility, often used at the beginning and end of a session. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual journey of yoga, which is not just about physical exercise but also about inner peace and connection with the universe. Yoga practitioners use Namaste to create a sense of unity and mutual respect among participants, reinforcing the communal and spiritual aspects of the practice.

Cultural Importance Of Namaste

Namaste transcends religious boundaries and is a part of everyday life in India. It is used to greet elders, peers, and strangers alike, reflecting the cultural emphasis on respect and humility. In Indian society, showing respect is paramount, and Namaste is a universally accepted way to demonstrate this. The gesture is also used in various rituals and ceremonies, highlighting its integral role in both personal and communal practices.

Psychological And Social Benefits of Namaste

Beyond its cultural and spiritual significance, Namaste also offers psychological and social benefits. The act of bowing and bringing the hands together creates a sense of calm and focus, promoting mindfulness and reducing stress. Socially, it fosters a sense of mutual respect and equality, breaking down barriers and creating a more harmonious interaction.