Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has described the banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu for Russian President Vladimir Putin as a "warm" and "engaging" event. Tharoor, who attended the state dinner at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday night, shared his positive impressions of the evening on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
"Attended the @rashtrapatibhvn banquet for President Putin last night. A warm and engaging atmosphere reigned. Enjoyed my conversations with many of the attendees, especially my dining companions from the Russian delegation!" Tharoor posted. He also shared pictures from the event.
Tharoor's presence at the banquet came amidst some controversy, as other Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, were not invited. This led to questions from within the party as to why Tharoor accepted the invitation. Congress party's media and publicity department head, Pawan Khera, voiced his surprise that the opposition leaders were not invited, and subtly criticized Tharoor for attending. Khera stated that those party members who were invited while the leaders were not should question their conscience. He also accused the government of breaching protocol and not believing in democratic principles.
Tharoor, however, confirmed that his invitation reflected the courtesy offered to the head of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs.
President Murmu welcomed President Putin and his delegation and noted that the visit marked the 25th anniversary of the India-Russia strategic partnership, which was established in October 2000 during Putin's first visit to India as president. She also conveyed India's appreciation for Putin's support and personal commitment to the India-Russia special and privileged strategic partnership. Putin highlighted the wide range of cooperation between the two nations across different spheres, including politics, security, the economy and trade, energy, education, and other areas, as encompassed in the joint declaration he and Prime Minister Modi adopted.
The banquet featured a wide array of Indian dishes, including Zafrani Paneer Roll, Paalak Methi Mattar Ka Saag, Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, Achaari Baingan and Yellow Dal Tadka. These were accompanied by Dry Fruit and Saffron Pulao and Indian breads such as Laccha Parantha, Magaz Naan, Satanaj Roti, Missi Roti and Biscuity Roti. Desserts included Badam Ka Halwa, Kesar-Pista Kulfi, and fresh fruits, with traditional accompaniments like Gur Sandesh, Murakku, and a variety of pickles and salads.
Putin's visit to India was marked by extensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on expanding cooperation across various sectors. The visit also underscored the enduring strategic partnership between India and Russia.
