New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu hosted a grand State Dinner at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 5 December in honour of Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking the conclusion of his two-day visit to India. The menu showcased a rich spread of authentic Indian regional cuisine, offering Putin a taste of India’s culinary diversity.
The dinner opened with Murungekai Charu, a South Indian-style rasam soup. Starters included Kashmiri Gucchi Doon Chetin (stuffed mushrooms with Kashmiri walnut chutney), kale chane ke shikampuri kebab, and veg jhol momos.
For the main course, Putin was served a traditional Indian vegetarian thali, featuring zafrani paneer roll, palak–methi–matar saag, and an assortment of Indian breads. The dessert platter included halwa, kulfi, and sandes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also presented Putin with six special gifts, including a silver horse and a marble chess set.
The evening featured a live performance of Indian classical music, with Rashtrapati Bhavan’s Navy Band and classical instrumentalists presenting ragas such as Amritavarshini, Khamaj, Yaman, Shivranjini, Nalinakanti, and Bhairavi.
During the dinner, President Putin praised the steadily growing India–Russia special strategic partnership, noting that both nations have signed agreements aimed at expanding cooperation in politics, security, economy, trade, energy, and education.
He emphasized the shared vision of working together for a “better world with the United Nations at the centre,” and expressed confidence that India–Russia cooperation would deepen further during India’s BRICS presidency in 2026. Referring to an Indian proverb, Putin added, “Sath chalo, sath badho — walk together, grow together — this reflects the true spirit of our friendship.”