Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted ISKCON’s Russian edition of the Bhagavad Gita to Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a symbolic moment in India’s cultural diplomacy. The gesture highlights India’s spiritual heritage and its enduring role in fostering global connections.
Radharamn Das, Vice President and Spokesperson of ISKCON Kolkata, expressed gratitude to PM Modi for the gesture. He noted that ISKCON has distributed over 60 crore copies of the Bhagavad Gita worldwide, spanning more than 110 languages.
Das added that the organisation is ready to supply copies in all available languages for further global distribution.
In a statement shared on X, Das posted, “Thank you, Shri @narendramodi ji, for gifting ISKCON’s Russian edition of the Bhagavad Gita to @KremlinRussia_E. To date, ISKCON has distributed more than 60 crore copies of the Gita worldwide in over 110 languages. We would be happy to supply copies in all available languages for further distribution. Hare Krishna 🙏 #PutinIndiaVisit #Putin #Russia #ModiPutin #Modi.”
Earlier, PM Modi shared a photograph of the gifting moment on X, noting, “Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world.”
The gifting coincided with Russian President Putin’s first visit to India in four years, lasting nearly 27 hours.
PM Modi personally welcomed Putin at Palam Airport with a warm embrace, breaking protocol to underscore the importance of the visit. The welcome included performances by traditional Indian artistes, reflecting India’s rich cultural heritage.
During the visit, PM Modi hosted a private dinner for President Putin at his residence, which was adorned with lights and flowers.
The dinner mirrored the hospitality extended to PM Modi during his visit to Moscow in July last year, reinforcing the personal rapport between the two leaders.
The presentation of the Bhagavad Gita in Russian highlights India’s use of spiritual and literary heritage as a tool of soft power and cultural diplomacy.
By sharing one of its most revered texts, India not only strengthens bilateral ties but also promotes global understanding of its philosophy and values.
The gesture exemplifies India’s ongoing commitment to cultural outreach and the global dissemination of its spiritual wisdom. Through initiatives like this, India continues to leverage its rich heritage to build lasting relationships and inspire millions worldwide.
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