The Indian High Commission in Tanzania recently honoured Kili Paul. The proffering of such honours and prizes to international citizens strengthens ties with that nation. It also bodes well for the international reputation of India. India has been trying to strengthen its relations with various African nations.
India wants to counter China’s growing influence in the African Region. This honouring of Kili Paul marks yet another step in that direction. Readout this article to know who Kili Paul is, why was he honoured and why India wants to increase its influence in the African region.
Who is Kili Paul and Why Was He Honoured?
Kili Paul is one of the most popular youtube stars in India. He is widely known for lip-syncing on Bollywood songs. Paul has been leveraging mostly Instagram to spread his content. Paul has over two million subscribers on his Instagram Channel. Ayushmann Khurrana, Gul Panag, Richa Chadha are among his followers.
This in itself speaks volumes about his popularity. His sister Neema has also featured in some of his videos such as that in which he lip-synced to the song ‘Raatan Lambiyan’ from the film Shershaah.
The fact that Kili Paul posts his videos mostly in his traditional attire has been particularly liked by Indian viewers who view respecting one’s culture as a highly respectful and honourable act. The news of the Indian High Commission honouring Paul has been much appreciated by his Indian fans.
One Indian fan of his tweeted: India in Tanzania did a great Job to greet and pay respect to this hero and great supporter of India’s soft power. We should and Missions should actively engage these soft power warriors for Indian good as well as a global good,”
Why Does India Want to Build Soft Power in Africa?
Honouring of Kili Paul has by the Indian High Commission has been widely viewed as an act of soft power by India. Africa is of great interest to India because of the ample resources that it houses. China has also been trying to increase its influence in Africa to gain control over these resources. In view of such a geopolitical scenario, it has become more imperative than ever for India to build and exercise its soft power in Africa.
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