Did Netanyahu Wear a Nehru Jacket or Modi Jacket to Meet PM Modi?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made headlines during his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jerusalem — not just for diplomatic discussions, but for his choice of attire. Netanyahu surprised many by wearing an Indian-style jacket and kurta while hosting PM Modi for a formal dinner, sparking a lively debate online: was it a classic Nehru jacket or a modern Modi jacket?

The moment quickly went viral on social media, with videos showing Netanyahu dressed in a stone-coloured band-collar jacket paired with a white kurta and trousers. PM Modi, known globally for his distinctive sartorial choices, greeted him warmly. Netanyahu even posted about the “surprise” in Hindi on social media, highlighting the camaraderie between India and Israel.

However, the focus soon shifted from diplomacy to design. Observers and political commentators began debating whether the Israeli leader’s outfit resembled the traditional Nehru jacket associated with India’s first Prime Minister, or the contemporary variation often referred to as the Modi jacket.

Nehru Jacket vs Modi Jacket: What’s the Difference?

The Nehru jacket takes its name from India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Though Nehru did not invent the garment, he popularised it globally in the mid-20th century. Inspired by the traditional bandhgala or achkan, the Nehru jacket is typically sleeveless, hip-length, and features a mandarin collar that buttons up to the neck. It is often made from khadi or wool and is usually styled in neutral tones, projecting a formal and minimalist aesthetic.

The Modi jacket, on the other hand, is widely seen as a modern adaptation. Tailors and apparel brands have popularised this version since 2014. The Modi jacket is often slightly longer, with a more relaxed fit. It may feature brighter colours, subtle embroidery, or design variations in the collar. Unlike the more traditional Nehru style, the Modi jacket is frequently paired with vibrant kurtas and can even be styled with jeans for a semi-formal look.

Fashion as Diplomatic Messaging

Netanyahu’s outfit symbolised more than just clothing. Fashion often plays a subtle but powerful role in diplomacy. By choosing Indian attire, the Israeli Prime Minister appeared to send a message of respect and cultural connection.

Political figures have long used clothing to reflect identity and values. Nehru’s signature achkans and red rose symbolised swadeshi pride and intellectual simplicity. Modi’s bold and colourful wardrobe highlights India’s textile diversity and promotes indigenous craftsmanship on the global stage.

Whether Netanyahu’s jacket was inspired by Nehru’s classic style or Modi’s contemporary adaptation may remain open to interpretation. What is clear, however, is that the gesture reinforced the warmth in India-Israel relations and demonstrated how even wardrobe choices can become part of diplomatic storytelling.