Indian Savoury Delights at Grand Rashtrapati Bhavan Banquet for Putin
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu hosted a state banquet for Russian President Vladimir Putin at Rashtrapati Bhavan shortly before wrapping up his visit and departing for Moscow. A musical performance blending Indian classical music with Russian melodies increased the magnificence of the event.
India’s rich regional cuisine was showcased at the banquet. The meal started with Murungelai Chaaru soup, a traditional South Indian rasam, followed by appetizers like Gucchi Doon Chetin (morels stuffed with Kashmiri walnut chutney), Kaale Chane Ke Shikampuri (stir-grilled black gram kebabs) and Vegetable Jhol Momo served with spicy chutney.
The main course included Zafrani Paneer Roll, Paalak Methi Mattar Ka Saag, Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, Achaari Baingan and Yellow Dal Tadka. These dishes were accompanied by Dry Fruits and Saffron Pulao along with various Indian breads like Laccha Parantha, Magaz Naan, Satanaj Roti, Missi Roti and Biscuity Roti. Desserts included Badam Ka Halwa, Kesar-Pista Kulfi and fresh fruits, while traditional products such as Gur Sandesh, Murakku, various pickles and salads were also included. Beverages included fresh juices made from pomegranate, orange, carrot and ginger.
The musical program of the Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval Orchestra, supported by classical instrumentalists, enriched the evening. The repertoire included Indian raagas such as Amritavarshini, Khamaj, Yaman, Shivranjini, Nalinakanthi, Bhairavi and Desh, as well as Russian melodies such as Kalinka and excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s works. Nutcracker Suiteand hindi movie tune Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani.
During the banquet, President Putin emphasized the strength of India-Russia cooperation. He noted that the declaration adopted during his visit covers wide-ranging cooperation in politics, security, trade, energy, education and many other fields. Recalling the 15th anniversary of the declaration that elevated bilateral ties to a “specially privileged strategic partnership,” he said discussions with Indian leaders were open and constructive.
Putin emphasized that both countries are committed to shaping a fair and just world order based on the central role of the UN and the global balance of interests. He praised the spirit of the India-Russia partnership, describing it as “go together, grow together” and expressed confidence that the strategic relationship will continue to strengthen.
In his welcome speech, President Murmu highlighted the special importance of celebrating the 25th anniversary of the India-Russia Strategic Partnership. He highlighted the success of bilateral relations in 2025 and said that the 23rd Annual Summit Joint Declaration offers a broad roadmap for deeper engagement.
Shortly after dinner, President Putin met with Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. He left Delhi with S. Jaishankar seeing him off. During his two-day visit, Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to enhance cooperation on developing efficient transport corridors and raise economic ties to “new heights” by 2030 by co-hosting the India-Russia Annual Summit. Prime Minister Modi also announced India’s plan to launch a 30-day free e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens.
