India rolls out the red carpet for Putin with art and celebrations
Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in India on Thursday for a two-day visit aimed at boosting ties.
Ahead of his arrival, Indians got creative—Varanasi locals held aarti ceremonies, artists made sand and acrylic portraits of Putin, and social media was full of "Namaste Putin" greetings.
The welcome in various parts of the country had a festive vibe.
Exhibitions and summits highlight strong India-Russia ties
In Delhi, the Russian House hosted a photo exhibition marking 25 years of military-technical partnership between the countries, featuring photos of Putin with Indian leaders and defense models.
On his visit, Putin will have dinner with PM Modi, attend a ceremonial welcome, visit Gandhi's memorial, and headline the 23rd annual India-Russia summit—showing just how deep these connections run.