Putin Gets A Regal Veg Spread At Rashtrapati Bhavan — Here’s What Was Served

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an elaborate state dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Friday night. The event, also attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and other dignitaries, featured an entirely vegetarian spread showcasing diverse regional flavours of India.

The appetizers included Gucchi Doon Chetin (stuffed morels with Kashmiri walnut chutney), Kaale Chane Ke Shikampuri (pan-grilled black gram kebabs), Vegetable Jhol Momo with Chutney, and Murungelai Chaaru soup.

For the main course, Putin was served Zafrani Paneer Roll, Paalak Methi Mattar Ka Saag, Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, Achaari Baingan, and Yellow Dal Tadka.

An assortment of breads accompanied the dishes, including Lachha Paratha, Magaz Naan, Satanaj Roti, Missi Roti, and Biscuity Roti. Desserts comprised Badam Ka Halwa, Kesar-Pista Kulfi, and Fresh Fruits, along with a Bengali specialty, Gur Sandesh, and the South Indian snack Murakku. The beverage selection offered pomegranate, orange, carrot, and ginger juices, alongside pickles and a range of salads.

Music From Bollywood to Russian Classics Sets the Evening's Tone

Throughout the dinner, the Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval band performed Indian classical pieces as well as popular Bollywood tunes. The lineup also included iconic Russian compositions, reflecting the cultural closeness between the two nations.

The band performed a song from Shah Rukh Khan's film "Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani", classical ragas such as Amritavarshini and Nalinkanthi, and the famous Russian folk melody "Kalinka". The classical ensemble showcased its artistry using traditional instruments like the sarod, sarangi, and tabla, and paid tribute to Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky with a rendition of "The Nutcracker Suite."

During the banquet, President Murmu emphasized the strength of India-Russia ties, stating,
"Our partnership is guided by a shared commitment to peace, stability and mutual socio-economic and technological advancement," while acknowledging Putin's continued support for the strategic partnership.