In a groundbreaking event at Vatican City, Iulia Vantur met Pope Leo XIV and became the first artist to perform a Bollywood song in the country. The performance took place at the Paul VI Hall in the Vatican, marking a historic moment for Indian culture on the global stage.
The event was part of the 60th-anniversary celebration of Nostra Aetate, a declaration from the Second Vatican Council promoting dialogue, understanding, and unity among world religions. Thousands gathered at the Vatican to commemorate this landmark document through cultural performances, testimonials, and addresses.
Iulia Vantur's performance included a rendition of the popular Bollywood song "Teri Meri" from the film Bodyguard, as well as Hindi and Romanian songs. She also sang the original Romanian version of "Teri Meri" and an unreleased song titled "Corinde Corinde". The performance was particularly significant as it was the first time a Bollywood song had been sung at the Vatican in the presence of the Pope and other esteemed guests.
Vantur described the experience as more than just a performance, calling it "a prayer through music". She expressed that bringing an Indian song to such a spiritual place felt magical, demonstrating how music can transcend borders and faiths to speak the language of love.
In addition to her solo performances, Iulia Vantur joined Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Jason "Poo Bear" Boyd, along with musicians Stephen Devassy and Vijay Yesudas, for a performance of "We Are the New World (Keep Doing Good)," an anthem celebrating unity, hope, and kindness. This global collaboration highlighted the event's theme of interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding.
Iulia Vantur also had the opportunity to meet Pope Leo XIV. She described the meeting as an experience beyond words, noting the Pope's warmth and kindness. She said that his presence filled her with gratitude and a deep sense of calm, reminding her that true faith lies in compassion, humility, and human connection.
The event also featured a performance by Kerala musicians Vijay Yesudas and Stephen Devassy, who presented a Malayalam Christian devotional song. Their performance included a message from Kerala social reformer Sree Narayana Guru: "Jathi Bhedam Matha Dwesham" (no caste, no religious hatred).
Cardinal George Koovakad, who leads the Interreligious Dicastery, played an instrumental role in advancing the spirit of dialogue and fraternity envisioned by Nostra Aetate. The event, under his leadership, reflected the Vatican's commitment to fostering peace, harmony, and collaboration among all faiths.
The "We Are the New World" delegation was later received and blessed by Pope Leo XIV, who encouraged the movement's message of peace and compassion. Dr. Sanjaanaa Jon presented the Pope with the Lamp of Light, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and the illumination of faith, hope, and love.
Iulia Vantur's performance at the Vatican marks a significant milestone in promoting cultural exchange and interfaith dialogue. Her participation in the 60th-anniversary celebration of Nostra Aetate underscores the power of music to unite people from different backgrounds and beliefs.
