President Droupadi Murmu Hosts State Banquet For Russian President Vladimir Putin

President Droupadi Murmu hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin at a grand state banquet in Rashtrapati Bhavan, Delhi, ahead of his departure to Moscow. The event showcased the deep cultural, diplomatic, and economic ties between India and Russia.

The banquet featured a musical performance blending Indian classical music with Russian melodies.

Distinguished instrumentalists performed Indian raagas such as Amritavarshini, Khamaj, Yaman, Shivranjini, Nalinakanthi, Bhairavi, and Desh, alongside Russian pieces including Kalinka and excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, as well as the popular Hindi film tune Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani.

The culinary offerings highlighted India’s regional diversity.

The menu began with Murungelai Chaaru soup, a traditional South Indian rasam, followed by appetisers like Gucchi Doon Chetin (stuffed morels with Kashmiri walnut chutney), Kaale Chane Ke Shikampuri (pan-grilled black gram kebabs), and Vegetable Jhol Momo with spicy chutney.

The main course included Zafrani Paneer Roll, Paalak Methi Mattar Ka Saag, Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, Achaari Baingan, and Yellow Dal Tadka, complemented by Dry Fruit and Saffron Pulao and Indian breads such as Laccha Parantha, Magaz Naan, Satanaj Roti, Missi Roti, and Biscuity Roti.

Desserts featured Badam Ka Halwa, Kesar-Pista Kulfi, fresh fruits, Gur Sandesh, Murakku, and assorted pickles and salads. Beverages included a healthy blend of pomegranate, orange, carrot, and ginger juices.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

During the banquet, President Putin praised the India-Russia partnership, noting that the declaration adopted with PM Modi encompasses broad cooperation in politics, security, trade, energy, and education.

He stated, “15 years ago, we signed an important declaration elevating our relations to a specially privileged strategic partnership. Our talks yesterday and today were genuinely open and constructive. This declaration, along with other documents, will give a strong push to the development of our bilateral relations.”

Putin also emphasised joint efforts to establish a fairer and just world order, highlighting India’s role as BRICS Chair in 2026 and describing the partnership as “go together, grow together.”

President Murmu welcomed Putin, noting, “Today holds special significance as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the India-Russia Strategic Partnership. The Joint Statement issued for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit reflects our special relationship and provides a broad roadmap to deepen our bilateral engagement.”

During his visit, Putin co-hosted the India-Russia Annual Summit with PM Modi. Both leaders agreed to enhance transport corridors and elevate economic cooperation to ‘new heights’ by 2030.

PM Modi also announced that India will soon launch a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens, further facilitating cultural exchange and bilateral tourism.