Russian President Vladimir Putin was hosted to an elaborate state banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday night, where President Droupadi Murmu welcomed him with a specially curated vegetarian spread reflecting India’s rich culinary heritage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and top government officials were among the dignitaries present.
The dinner, designed to showcase the diversity of Indian cuisine, opened with an array of regional appetisers. President Putin was served Gucchi Doon Chetin, a morel-based delicacy paired with Kashmiri walnut chutney, Kaale Chane Ke Shikampuri kebabs, and Vegetable Jhol Momos with a tangy chutney. The course was complemented by a warm serving of Murungelai Chaaru, a southern-style soup.
The main course celebrated India’s vegetarian traditions with dishes such as Zafrani Paneer Roll, Paalak Methi Mattar Saag, Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, Achaari Baingan, and Yellow Dal Tadka. An assortment of breads — including Lachha Paratha, Magaz Naan, Satanaj Roti, Missi Roti and the aromatic Biscuity Roti — accompanied the feast.
The dessert platter was equally indulgent, featuring Badam Halwa, Kesar-Pista Kulfi, fresh seasonal fruits, and the classic Gur Sandesh from Bengal. Putin was also offered the traditional South Indian snack Murukku. The beverage selection included pomegranate, orange, carrot and ginger-based fresh juices, alongside traditional pickles and salads.
Adding to the ambiance, the Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval band performed a fusion of Indian classical ragas, popular Bollywood melodies, and iconic Russian compositions. Their repertoire included Raga Amritavarshini, the Russian folk tune Kalinka, a medley from Shah Rukh Khan’s Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, and a tribute to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky through The Nutcracker Suite on sarod, sarangi and tabla.
During her address at the banquet, President Murmu lauded the enduring bond between India and Russia, saying: “Our partnership is guided by a shared commitment to peace, stability and mutual socio-economic and technological advancement.” She also expressed gratitude for Putin’s “personal commitment” to strengthening the strategic partnership.
