President Droupadi Murmu hosted a lavish state banquet for her Russian counterpart on Friday — showcasing a wide array of dishes from across the country. The event also featured a musical performance blending Indian classical music with Russian melodies. Vladimir Putin also met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and led the Russia-India Summit during his closely-watched visit to the country.
What was on the menu?
The lavish event highlighted the rich regional delicacies of India — starting with Murungelai Chaaru, a traditional South Indian rasam (soup), followed by appetisers such as Gucchi Doon Chetin (stuffed morels with Kashmiri walnut chutney), Kaale Chane Ke Shikampuri (pan-grilled black gram kebabs), and Vegetable Jhol Momo with spicy chutney.
The main course featured Zafrani Paneer Roll, Paalak Methi Mattar Ka Saag, Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, Achaari Baingan and Yellow Dal Tadka, accompanied by Dry Fruit and Saffron Pulao with Indian breads such as Laccha Parantha, Magaz Naan, Satanaj Roti, Missi Roti and Biscuity Roti.
Deserts included Badam Ka Halwa, Kesar-Pista Kulfi, and fresh fruits, with traditional accompaniments like Gur Sandesh, Murakku, and a variety of pickles and salads. Beverages included a very healthy mix of pomegranate, orange, carrot and ginger juices.
Musical accompaniments
The Naval band and an ensemble of classical instrumentalists played in the background during the state banquet. They performed traditional Indian classical as well as Bollywood music and celebrated Russian compositions to showcase the deep cultural connections between the two nations.
A song was played from Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan’s movie “Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani” by the Naval band. Kalinka, a Russian folk tune, as well as the ‘Amritavarshini’ and ‘Nalinkanthi’ ragas was also performed.
The classical ensemble showcased their art on traditional instruments, including the sarod, sarangi, and tabla and also paid tribute to Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky by performing ‘The Nutcracker Suite’.