PM Modi Presents Russian Edition of Bhagavad Gita to President Putin
Gesture shows deep India–Russia ties as Putin begins two-day visit for Annual Summit
- PM Modi gifts a Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita to President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi.
- Leaders share a car ride from Palam airport, signalling warmth and strategic closeness.
- Putin begins first India visit in four years; 23rd Annual Summit scheduled with PM Modi.
- Experts say visit will boost cooperation in defence, trade, technology and cultural ties.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 5th Dec: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday presented a copy of the Bhagavad Gita in Russian to President Vladimir Putin, who is on a two-day visit to India for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit. Modi shared a photograph of the exchange on X, calling the scripture a source of inspiration for millions across the world.
“Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world,” the Prime Minister wrote. Earlier in the evening, Modi personally received Putin at Delhi’s Palam airport, describing him as a “friend” and expressing confidence in the strength of the bilateral partnership.
As a rare gesture symbolising the close bond between the two leaders, Modi and Putin shared a car ride to the Prime Minister’s Lok Kalyan Marg residence. This marks Putin’s first visit to India in four years. He will stay in New Delhi until December 5 for high-level engagements.
Experts say the visit is poised to deepen cooperation in defence, trade, science and technology, and cultural and humanitarian affairs. Former diplomat Arun Singh said the trip highlights the “historical nature” of the India–Russia partnership, rooted in decades of political support.
“There is a confidence in the relationship on both sides,” he said, recalling Russia’s backing of India at key moments, including at the UN Security Council. He noted that Russian-origin weapon systems — including the S-400 and BrahMos — played a crucial role in India’s recent Operation Sindoor.
Lydia Kulik, Head of India Studies at Moscow School of Management, described the visit as “symbolic and a spectacle,” adding that both nations see strong prospects in expanding trade and economic cooperation.
“The priority at the moment is to open the Russian market for Indian exporters,” she said, noting that discussions will also cover defence, political issues and global developments.
The Annual Summit between PM Modi and Putin is expected to chart the next phase of India–Russia strategic cooperation as both countries navigate an evolving geopolitical landscape.
