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What flavours of India were served to Russian President Vladimir Putin on his Delhi visit at Rashtrapati Bhavan? A lavish Presidential banquet showcased heritage recipes from momo to halwa.
Special Indian thali included jhol momo dal tadka saffron pulao and more.
New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin received a memorable cultural and culinary reception during his visit to India where President Droupadi Murmu hosted an elaborate dinner in his honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Friday night banquet brought together food heritage and music from across the country offering the visiting leader a multisensory journey through India’s tradition and hospitality. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior members of the government joined the evening marking one of the most significant diplomatic gatherings in recent months.
The visit stood as a symbol of long standing bilateral ties but it was the thali that captured equal attention. A carefully constructed menu featuring regional staples and royal favourites reflected Indias diversity and culinary depth. The menu paid tribute to seasonal produce and traditional cooking methods while giving room to contemporary presentation.
The dinner opened with Murungelai Chaaru a tangy warm South Indian rasam that set a refreshing tone. A trio of starters followed each dish representing a different flavour landscape. Gucchi Doon Chetin brought the earthy richness of Kashmiri morels stuffed and paired with walnut chutney. Kaale Chane Ke Shikampuri delivered soft textured pan grilled kebabs and the highlight for many was Vegetable Jhol Momo served with fiery chutney echoing Himalayan simplicity on a presidential table.
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The main course offered an even wider spread. Zafrani Paneer Roll presented saffron scented indulgence while Paalak Methi Mattar Ka Saag balanced greens and spices. Tandoori Bharwan Aloo and Achaari Baingan provided familiar homestyle comfort and Yellow Dal Tadka embodied the essence of North Indian kitchens. Alongside these was Dry Fruit and Saffron Pulao aromatic and rich accompanied by a range of breads including Laccha Parantha Magaz Naan Satanaj Roti Missi Roti and Biscuity Roti ensuring Putin experienced the variety of Indian rotis beyond mainstream fare.
As the meal concluded sweet essentials arrived in style. Badam Halwa and Kesar Pista Kulfi were served with fresh fruits Gur Sandesh Murakku palate cleansers pickles and seasonal salads adding crunch and colour to the plate. A selection of juices featuring pomegranate orange carrot and ginger gave the evening a lighter finishing note.
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Food was only one element of the cultural tapestry. The Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval Band led a musical performance accompanied by Indian classical instrumentalists. The pieces flowed like a conversation between nations. Ragas such as Amritavarshini Yaman Desh Khamaj Bhairavi and Nalinakanthi resonated through the hall transitioning into Russian folk tunes including Kalinka and themes from Tchaikovskys Nutcracker Suite. A familiar Bollywood melody Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani tied the medley together sending the audience into applause.
Before the state dinner President Putin visited several key locations in the capital. He paid homage at Rajghat met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the PM residence attended delegation level talks at Hyderabad House and later arrived at Rashtrapati Bhavan for the banquet and ceremonial engagements. The visit concluded shortly after the dinner with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar accompanying him to the airport as he left for Moscow.
