India Serves Diplomacy with Vegetarian Feast

The presidential residence became a stage for cultural exchange as President Droupadi Murmu hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin for an elaborate state dinner. The menu was exclusively vegetarian, presenting a nuanced exploration of India's rich culinary landscape through carefully selected dishes. Each course was designed to tell a story of flavor and tradition, from the comforting opening broth to the intricate main courses.

The dining experience commenced with a warming moringa leaf broth, followed by a curated selection of appetizers that spanned India's regional diversity. These included Gucchi Doon Chetin from Kashmir and Kaale Chane ke Shikampuri kebabs, alongside vegetable jhol momos. The main course continued this gastronomic dialogue with rich offerings like Zafrani Paneer Roll and Palak Methi Matar Saag, complemented by aromatic saffron pulao and a variety of Indian breads.

The grand finale of the meal featured traditional Indian sweets such as almond halwa and kesar-pista kulfi, alongside other delicacies like gur sandesh and murukku. As the dinner concluded, musical performances by the Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval Band and classical musicians harmonized Indian ragas with Russian tunes, creating a symbolic crescendo of dialogue and friendship.