The visit to Israel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was not just about diplomacy and partnership. It also featured a more lighthearted, cultural moment that attracted public attention. On his trip, Modi met the cast and crew of Fauda, the Israeli action‑thriller series that has become a hit worldwide. Rather than serious conversations about the show itself or the themes of undercover shows, the meeting ended with a jocular selfie that went viral right after.
In February 2026, during a two‑day state visit to Israel, Modi spent time engaging with the Fauda team. The series is streamed on Netflix around the world, based on real‑life experiences of the Israel Defense Forces and enjoyed a loyal fan base in India. Modi even took a group selfie with the cast and crew, sharing the photo online with a witty caption: “Thankfully, this interaction required only a selfie, no undercover work!”
The show’s creator and lead actor, Lior Raz, was thrilled, calling the gathering “a huge honour.” He applauded Modi’s support of storytelling and cultural exchange. The selfie represented not only a casual image but also recognition of the global presence of Israeli entertainment.
This meeting showed India‑Israel ties that go beyond mere social connections and touch people‑to‑people. For its part, though Modi’s visit focused on strengthening defense, technology, and innovation partnerships, the selfie with the Fauda team also provided a cultural dimension. It demonstrated how popular culture can unite countries and forge moments that connect across boundaries of politics.
Modi’s visit also strengthened India‑Israel relations into a Special Strategic Partnership, with provisions in the fields of defense cooperation, water technology, and innovation. The selfie with the Fauda team became a lighter symbol of that partnership’s connection, a mix of diplomacy and pop culture.
Prime Minister Modi met with the Fauda team in a refreshing departure from formal diplomacy. By shooting a small selfie, he reached millions of viewers who were watching the show in India and abroad. The episode illustrated how cultural exchange can fortify global relationships, making diplomacy more relatable and immersive. The visit did have serious outcomes in defense and technology, but the selfie showcased the human side of global relations friendly, light‑hearted, and memorable.
