Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a high-profile gala dinner for global leaders and delegates attending the 18th BRICS Summit at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Designed to offer a deep taste of India's cultural and culinary heritage, the exclusively vegetarian menu brought together traditional regional recipes, contemporary culinary techniques, and a strong emphasis on sustainable nutrition.
The grand banquet followed a packed opening day of diplomatic engagements where leaders discussed key global frameworks. Alongside high-level political dialogues, the meal acted as a cultural bridge, offering heads of state—including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping—an immersive experience of Indian hospitality.
What Was on the Menu?
The multi-course meal was carefully curated to highlight flavors from different corners of India, blending street-inspired classics with royal delicacies.
Starters: The evening began with Khandvi Mille-Feuille—steamed gram-flour rolls tempered with mustard, coconut, and curry leaves, paired with Kesar mango and yoghurt dressing—alongside Khumb Galouti, which featured pan-grilled mushroom kebabs served on traditional sheermal bread.
Main Course: The centerpiece dishes included rich Paneer Lababdar with soft cottage cheese in a shallot-tomato gravy, Gucchi Marmik featuring Himalayan morel mushrooms and asparagus with saffron and mamra almonds, and South Indian-style Carrot Bean Poriyal cooked in virgin coconut oil.
Soups and Accompaniments: Guests also enjoyed Thakkali Belle Saaru, a light tomato and toor dal broth, alongside Millet Pulao, Beetroot Raita, and assorted Indian breads.
The Focus on Shree Anna and Sustainability
A defining highlight of the official menu card was its emphasis on "Shree Anna" (millets), aligning with India's global campaign to promote climate-resilient, nutrient-rich ancient grains. The meal integrated three distinct types of millets: pearl millet in the fragrant pulao, sorghum in the traditional breads, and barnyard millet in the dessert. By spotlighting millets on an international stage, India underscored agricultural sustainability and food security, themes that have formed a core part of its recent diplomatic outreach.
Traditional Sweets and Cultural Symphony
The dinner concluded with a sweet selection celebrating Old Delhi heritage and royal traditions. Delegates were served Old Delhi Fruit Cream with Jalebi, pairing fresh seasonal fruits and light cream with crispy sweet fritters, followed by Shahtoot Phirni, a slow-cooked rice pudding topped with sweet mulberries and edible gold leaf.
The culinary experience was complemented by the "BRICS Symphony," a vibrant cultural performance featuring more than 100 classical Indian dancers and musicians alongside international artists. Performing classical forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, and Kuchipudi, the troupe added a harmonious artistic finish to an evening designed to foster global friendship and cultural convergence.