Meet Dewi: A Digital Guide to India
Dewi is an artificial intelligence avatar created to serve as a virtual guide for anyone interested in India. Announced in mid-October 2026, this digital persona is tasked with providing a wide array of information. This includes details on Indian culture
and tourism, scholarship opportunities for students, business and investment prospects, and important consular service updates. The initiative aims to make information about India more accessible and engaging for a broad audience, from Indonesian nationals to the Indian diaspora living in the country. The embassy introduced Dewi on the social media platform X with a friendly invitation: 'Follow us, and say Halo to Dewi! Stay informed, stay connected!'.
The Significance of a Name
The choice of the name 'Dewi' is a masterstroke of cultural diplomacy. Derived from the Sanskrit word 'Devi', it translates to 'goddess' in Indonesian, a name that resonates deeply in both cultures. This shared heritage is a testament to the centuries-long influence of Sanskrit on the Indonesian language and culture. The launch was strategically timed to coincide with the auspicious Hindu festivals of Navaratri and Durga Puja, further strengthening the cultural connection. India's Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, highlighted this by noting that Dewi was there to 'guide her followers' on this special occasion. This thoughtful branding helps position the AI not just as a tool, but as a symbol of the enduring bond between India and Indonesia.
Why an AI Avatar for Diplomacy?
The introduction of Dewi is part of a broader strategy to modernize India's diplomatic outreach and leverage technology for public service delivery. In a world where digital communication is paramount, an AI avatar offers a novel way to engage with the public 24/7. It can efficiently handle frequently asked questions and disseminate information across social media platforms, reaching a wider audience than traditional methods might allow. This move is particularly relevant for the large Indian community in Indonesia, which includes approximately 130,000 Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and 15,000 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). By providing easily accessible updates, Dewi serves as a vital link for these communities. This isn't India's first foray into AI for diplomacy; the Consulate in Munich launched a similar avatar named 'Sarathi' earlier in 2026 to assist with consular queries.
A Key Part of India's 'Act East' Policy
This initiative fits seamlessly into India's larger foreign policy goals, particularly the 'Act East' policy, which aims to strengthen relationships with Southeast Asian nations. Indonesia is a key partner in this vision, with relations spanning political, defence, commercial, and cultural spheres. The launch of Dewi is a form of 'soft power'—using culture and technology to build goodwill and foster deeper connections. By presenting a tech-forward and culturally aware image, India reinforces its position as a modern, innovative nation. The project is also aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for leveraging AI to improve governance and public engagement. Initiatives like Dewi are practical examples of how India is using digital tools to make its global presence more interactive and relevant.
