'2+6 Equals What?': PM Modi's Simple Maths Message On India-Indonesia Ties Draws Smiles

Last Updated:July 07, 2026, 23:00 IST

Modi used the number 8 to symbolize India-Indonesia friendship in Jakarta, linking it to President Subianto and India's Republic Day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday used a simple maths example while highlighting the close friendship between India and Indonesia.

Speaking at an event with the Indian community in Jakarta, PM Modi linked the number 8 to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and India’s Republic Day, drawing smiles from the audience.

The Prime Minister said India’s Republic Day is celebrated on January 26, and asked the crowd to add 2 and 6 to get 8. He then pointed out that President Subianto was born on the 17th, saying that 1 plus 7 also equals 8.

“Friends, India celebrated its Republic Day with great enthusiasm on January 26 last year. Twenty-six… 2 plus 6 equals 8, and my friend the President’s birthday is on the 17th, 1 plus 7 also equals 8," he said.

A Light-Hearted Message

PM Modi recalled that President Subianto was the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations last year. Referring to that visit, he said one remark by the Indonesian leader had stayed with him.

“Mr President, you had then said, and you repeated it again today, that you have India’s DNA. That one statement won the hearts of millions of Indians, and even today, it received the loudest applause. It truly touched the hearts of the people of India," the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister noted that the friendship between India and Indonesia is built on trust, shared heritage and close people-to-people ties.

“The relationship between India and Indonesia is rooted in our shared civilisational heritage and the seas that connect us," he said.

The Prime Minister also said India is moving ahead with the mantra of “reform, perform and transform". He said India’s growth and self-reliance are creating new opportunities not only for India but also for Indonesia and the wider ASEAN region.

“India has carried out one reform after another. We have consistently performed, and that’s why the country is transforming today. We are moving forward with the mantra of reform, perform and transform," Modi told the gathering.

(With inputs from PTI)

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