African American singer Mary Millben extended birthday greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, praising his leadership and describing him as an important figure in the India-U.S. relationship. Her remarks came as Modi marked his 76th birthday on September 17.

Speaking to IANS in Washington, Millben credited Modi with developments in infrastructure and technology, expanding opportunities in rural communities and efforts to empower women and girls.

“He certainly is the right leader for the U.S.-India relationship,” Millben said in her birthday message, while also praising Modi’s engagement with successive U.S. presidents.

She described his birthday as an occasion to celebrate his life, leadership and legacy before offering him a musical greeting. Millben then sang “Happy Birthday” for the prime minister.

“I tell you, India is so lucky to have Prime Minister Modi as their leader,” she said.

Millben also discussed changes she said she had observed in India during Modi’s tenure, pointing to infrastructure, technology and opportunities for rural communities. She included women’s and girls’ empowerment among the areas she viewed positively.

On India-U.S. relations, Millben said Modi’s experience working with successive American presidents had contributed to his understanding of the bilateral relationship. She said his leadership had helped maintain strong ties between the two countries.

Millben also referred to the gathering of international leaders in New Delhi for the BRICS summit, describing it as an achievement for Modi and highlighting the participation of leaders from different countries.

Her comments were part of a broader series of birthday greetings and tributes for Modi, who turned 76 on September 17. The prime minister received messages from political leaders and public figures in India and abroad on the occasion.

Millben’s remarks represent her personal assessment of Modi’s leadership and the India-U.S. relationship. Her comments do not constitute an official U.S. government position.