‘Melodi’ reunion: PM Modi and Italy’s Giorgia Meloni set social media abuzz with viral Rome pictures

Narendra Modi and Giorgia Meloni once again set social media abuzz after posing together against the backdrop of Rome’s iconic streets, with their latest photographs quickly going viral online following Modi’s arrival in Italy for the final leg of his five-nation tour.

The images, shared shortly after Modi landed in Rome, drew massive attention online, with users reviving the now-familiar “Melodi” trend — a social media nickname combining Modi and Meloni that has repeatedly surfaced during previous meetings between the two leaders.

Sharing photos from the evening, Modi wrote on social media: “Upon landing in Rome, had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Meloni over dinner followed by a visit to the iconic Colosseum. We exchanged perspectives on a wide range of subjects.”

“Looking forward to our talks today, where we will continue the conversation on how to boost the India-Italy friendship,” he added.

Meloni had earlier welcomed Modi with a message on social media saying, “Welcome to Rome, my friend!”

The two leaders have frequently acknowledged the popularity of “Melodi” memes and have often appeared to embrace the online enthusiasm around their meetings. They last met in November 2025 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, where they held bilateral discussions.

During his visit, Modi also received a warm welcome from the Indian community in Italy. According to External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the reception included cultural performances by Italian artists featuring Kathak, Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dance forms.

The programme also included Indian classical music performances by Italian musicians using instruments such as the Santoor, Tabla, Bansuri and Sitar.

Modi additionally highlighted his interaction with Italian painter Giampaolo Tomassetti, who presented him with artwork inspired by Varanasi. The Prime Minister noted the artist’s decades-long interest in Indian culture and his work on themes related to the Mahabharata.

Italy marks the fifth and final stop of Modi’s diplomatic tour, following visits to United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Sweden and Norway.