Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded his two-day visit to India with a grand farewell dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This official State Dinner, held in honour of the visiting leader, showcased India's rich vegetarian culinary traditions and cultural heritage, reinforcing the strong ties between India and Russia.

The dinner was designed as a culinary journey across India, beginning with a tangy South Indian rasam called Murungelai Chaaru. The appetizer course featured a variety of regional delicacies, including Gucchi Doon Chetin, which are stuffed morels served with Kashmiri walnut chutney, Kaale Chane Ke Shikampuri Kebabs, and Vegetable Jhol Momos accompanied by a spicy dip.

The main course celebrated vegetarian dishes, including Zafrani Paneer Roll, Paalak Methi Mattar Saag, Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, Achaari Baingan, and Yellow Dal Tadka. These were served with Dry Fruit and Saffron Pulao and an assortment of Indian breads such as Lachcha Parantha, Magaz Naan, Satanaaj Roti, Missi Roti, and Biscuity Roti.

Desserts included traditional sweets like Badam Halwa, Kesar-Pista Kulfi, and seasonal fruits, along with refreshing juices made from pomegranate, orange, carrot, and ginger.

Music played a significant role in the evening's ambience. The Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval Band performed a unique fusion of Indian classical ragas and popular Russian songs, including Kalinka and pieces from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite.

During the dinner, President Putin praised the growing India-Russia strategic partnership, highlighting a new joint declaration signed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that this agreement enhances cooperation in various sectors, including politics, defence, trade, and education. Putin emphasized the shared vision of both nations for a balanced global order anchored in the United Nations, using the phrase, "go together, grow together."

President Murmu also acknowledged the 25th anniversary of the India-Russia Strategic Partnership, noting the productive year of 2025 with deeper engagement across multiple sectors. Following the banquet, Putin departed from Delhi, accompanied by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to the airport. Throughout his visit, discussions between Putin and PM Modi focused on connectivity, economic collaboration, and tourism, with India announcing new visa options for Russian travellers to enhance people-to-people ties.