Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Russian President Vladimir Putin a selection of culturally significant Indian items, including aromatic Assam black tea, premium Kashmiri saffron, a handcrafted silver horse, an ornate tea set, and a Russian edition of the Bhagavad Gita.
The gifted Srimad Bhagavad Gita contains Lord Krishna’s teachings to Arjuna on duty, the eternal nature of the soul and the pursuit of spiritual liberation during the Kurukshetra war. Officials noted that its timeless guidance on ethics, self-discipline and inner peace continues to resonate globally through modern translations.
Assam black tea, grown in the Brahmaputra Valley, is known for its malty taste, rich colour and traditional processing of the Assamica variety. With a GI tag since 2007, it represents a legacy shaped by the region’s soil, climate and craftsmanship, and is appreciated for its cultural significance and potential health benefits.
The intricately crafted Murshidabad silver tea set reflects Bengal’s renowned artistry and the shared tea culture of India and Russia. The silver horse from Maharashtra symbolises honour and courage, embodying mutual respect between the two nations. Also included was an Agra marble chess set, representing the region’s famed inlay work, along with prized Kashmiri saffron known for its colour, fragrance and flavour.
