Indian students viral classical rendition of UAE anthem Ishy Bilady using sitar tabla and flute wins praise, Sheikh Hamdan shares video, hailed as symbol of cultural harmony

Indian students’ classical rendition of UAE’s national anthem. (Image: ANI)
A group of Indian students has won widespread praise online after a classical rendition of the UAE national anthem went viral. The performance, featuring 13 students from expatriate families, blended traditional Indian instruments such as the sitar, tabla and flute to recreate the UAE anthem, Ishy Bilady, in a unique style.
The video quickly gained traction on social media, with many calling it a powerful symbol of cultural harmony and gratitude towards the UAE.
Among those who took note was Deputy PM of UAE Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who shared the video and thanked the students for their heartfelt tribute.
His public acknowledgment further amplified the reach of the performance, with many praising the gesture as a reflection of the strong bond between the Indian diaspora and the UAE.
WATCH VIDEO:
‘Outstanding Rendition’
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi described it as a “heartwarming display” of India-UAE friendship, while Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Deepak Mittal, lauded the students for their “outstanding rendition” and the message of unity it conveyed.
Inspiration Amid Regional Uncertainty
Meanwhile, founder and director of Malhaar, Jogiraj Sikidar shared that the project was inspired by a simple billboard he saw on a Dubai highway that read, “In the UAE, we are all Emirati.” “I have been in the UAE for 20 years, and while many call it their second home, I call it my first,” Sikidar told The National.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
April 13, 2026, 19:18 IST
Read More







