(bc) This year’s Hannover Messe was officially opened by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As the world’s leading industrial trade fair, the event welcomed India as its official partner country for the second time, following a similar role in 2006. On this occasion, however, India’s presentation was notably more strategic and confident.
“Who could do this show better than Modi?” I heard two German journalists remark as we made our way to the press centre.
At 64, Mr Modi appears energetic and assertive when compared with his predecessor, Dr Manmohan Singh, who had seemed increasingly subdued during the final years of his tenure. In his inaugural address on 12 April 2015, Mr Modi projected an image of dynamism and self-assurance, encouraging the audience to see India through the same lens: forward-looking, ambitious and ready to take its place on the global stage.
The opening ceremony included a vibrant and visually striking showcase of India’s cultural diversity, which clearly resonated with the German audience. Earlier that day, Mr Modi had joined Hannover’s Lord Mayor in unveiling a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the city’s Town Hall.
On the morning of 13 April, Chancellor Merkel accompanied Mr Modi on a tour of selected exhibition stands, including those of Siemens, Volkswagen, Harting and Salzgitter AG. Senior executives such as Joe Kaeser and Martin Winterkorn presented their latest innovations.
Later that day, both leaders took part in the Indo-German Business Summit, where Mr Modi delivered a second keynote address. Referring to Ms Merkel as “a great friend of India”, he introduced the “Make in India” campaign, using a lion as its emblem – a symbol of strength and momentum. He emphasized India’s ambition to become a leading manufacturing hub, but acknowledged that the country’s own regulatory environment had too often hindered progress. Reform, he said, was essential.
The German Chancellor reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties, before stepping aside as Modi took time to greet the public. Outside, he was met by large crowds of Indian nationals waving flags and chanting “Modi, Modi!” in scenes more reminiscent of a pop concert than a trade fair. The Prime Minister engaged warmly with the crowd, shaking hands, smiling and appearing eager to project both optimism and (a new) national pride, particularly towards India’s younger generation.
Yet Modi remains a divisive figure. As a key leader of the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and with the right-wing Shiv Sena also in government, his politics are the subject of intense debate. Sociologist Dr Urmila Goel commented on Facebook: “I am repeatedly shocked by how uncritically many Indians, both in Germany and elsewhere, follow Modi and his propaganda.” Her view was echoed by a group of Sikh demonstrators outside the Messe, who protested loudly, chanting “Modi out!” and holding banners criticising his role during the 2002 Gujarat riots.
By that time, however, Mr Modi was already en route to Berlin. There, he checked into the Hotel Adlon, where he was once again met by enthusiastic supporters, before entering into political discussions with Chancellor Merkel and members of her cabinet.
Away from the politics, there was also a touch of Bollywood glamour. Actor Vivek Oberoi made an unannounced appearance at the Hannover Messe, reportedly to show his support for Mr Modi and the “Make in India” initiative. His visit was said to be supported by Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
