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President Droupadi Murmu hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin to a grand vegetarian state banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The carefully curated menu, showcasing the finest regional Indian delicacies, marked a significant moment in the ongoing India-Russia relations during Putin’s two-day visit to India. The banquet was held following an official ceremonial welcome and served as one of the key formal engagements of his trip.

The First Course

The evening began with a warm and light starter-Murungelai Chaaru, a comforting soup that set the tone for the meal. It was followed by an impressive spread of vegetarian appetizers that spanned the diverse flavours of India, from the northern Kashmir valley to the eastern Himalayas. Notable dishes included Gucchi Doon Chetin, a Kashmir-inspired treat of stuffed morels served with a tangy walnut chutney, Kaale Chane ke Shikampuri, a savoury chickpea dumpling, and Vegetable Jhol Momo, a steamed Tibetan-inspired dumpling served with chutney.

The Main Course

For the main course, the chefs at Rashtrapati Bhavan presented a feast featuring seasonal winter produce, all prepared using traditional Indian cooking techniques. The array of dishes included the rich and fragrant Zafrani Paneer Roll, tender spinach and methi (fenugreek) in Palak Methi Mattar Ka Saag, and the hearty Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, a stuffed potato roasted to perfection.

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Other main course highlights included the spicy Achaari Baingan (pickled aubergine) and the comforting, homestyle Yellow Dal Tadka. To complement the curries, a fragrant Dry Fruit and Saffron Pulao was served alongside a choice of traditional Indian breads, including Lachha Paratha, Magaz Naan, and Satanaj Roti, providing a perfect balance to the rich and spicy flavours.

Traditional Indian Desserts

The dessert course featured a delightful array of traditional Indian sweets. Badam ka Halwa, a rich almond pudding, and Kesar-Pista Kulfi, a saffron-infused pistachio ice cream, provided a sweet and satisfying conclusion to the meal. The banquet also included a selection of fresh seasonal fruits, along with Gur Sandesh-a Bengali sweet made from jaggery and fresh cheese-and Murakku, a South Indian crunchy snack, adding a regional touch to the final offerings.

In keeping with the banquet's diverse flavours, a selection of refreshing beverages was served, including juices made from pomegranate, orange, and a zingy carrot-ginger blend. Salads such as Beetroot, Khaman Kakdi, and Shakarkandi Papdi Chaat with Kamrak Boondi Raita offered a refreshing contrast to the hearty main course. Accompaniments like Gongura Pickle, Mango Chutney, and crispy Banana Chips added an extra layer of flavour and texture to the meal.

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Bollywood Music Touch

While guests dined, the Naval band and a classical ensemble set the mood with a blend of Indian classical music, Bollywood tunes, and Russian compositions. A Bollywood song from Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani was performed, alongside the Russian folk classic Kalinka. The classical ensemble, featuring instruments like the sarod, sarangi, and tabla, also honoured Russian composer Tchaikovsky by performing his Nutcracker Suite.

The lavish banquet, held in honour of Putin's visit, not only celebrated India's culinary diversity but also reflected the warmth and depth of the longstanding India-Russia relationship. President Murmu’s welcoming words highlighted the 25th anniversary of the India-Russia strategic partnership, a historic milestone that began with Putin’s first visit to India in 2000. The banquet served as a fitting tribute to this enduring friendship, combining the flavours of India with the harmonious cultural exchange between two nations.

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