Performing to a packed audience, Neeti Mohan was overjoyed after her first gig at the Paris Olympics. On August 8, the singer took the stage at India House, a venue dedicated to supporting Indian athletes and serving as a “home away from home” during the Games. This marks the first time India has established such a space at the Olympics, aimed at promoting Indian culture and positioning the country as a future host for the Games.
Feeling “emotional and happy” after her performance, Mohan shared, “I had never even dreamt of something like this happening to me. I got to perform in Paris, in front of such a fabulous crowd, and I am so thrilled and overwhelmed.”
For the 44-year-old, the day was “memorable,” as she performed several of her own songs, including “India Wale” (from *Happy New Year*; 2014) and “Tu Hai Ho” (from *Mr. & Mrs. Mahi*) to an enthusiastic audience. “I performed some retro songs and a mix of my own songs. People were singing along to every song. They were jumping, dancing, and getting emotional,” she added.
Mohan chose a blue lehenga with Western influences for her performance, explaining that “the Olympics caters to an international audience.” She elaborated, “I wanted to have an Indian outfit, so I wore a lehenga on stage. Instead of a dupatta, I chose a jacket as I wanted my outfit to be a fusion. It is a stunning piece with heavy embroidery and a lot of bling. Blue represents India, which is also why I opted for the colour.”
When asked if she checked off any bucket list items during her visit to Paris, the singer revealed, “I have always wanted to go to the Eiffel Tower wearing a saree, and I am thrilled that I have been able to tick it off my list. I used to imagine myself wearing a saree, you know. I want to take my India with me, and I have done that today.”