Assam tea, Kashmir saffron: PM Modi's cultural gifts to Putin

India Dec 05, 2025

When Russian President Vladimir Putin visited New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted him with a bundle of uniquely Indian gifts.
Think Assam Black Tea, a Murshidabad silver tea set, a marble chess set from Agra, a handcrafted silver horse from Maharashtra, and some prized Kashmiri saffron—all chosen to show off India's rich traditions and artistry.

Why does this matter?

These weren't just fancy souvenirs—they were handpicked symbols of India's culture and friendship with Russia.
The real centerpiece? A Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita, reflecting Modi's push to share Indian wisdom globally.
For anyone curious about how countries use culture to connect (and impress), this gift exchange is a perfect example.