PM Modi gifts Russian-language Bhagavad Gita to President Vladimir Putin during New Delhi visit
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi (PM Modi) presented a Russian-language edition of the Bhagavad Gita to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who arrived in India on Thursday for a two-day official visit.
The gesture, captured in photographs shared by the Prime Minister on his X account, highlighted the spiritual and cultural significance of the Gita, which Modi described as a source of inspiration for millions around the world.
“I presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. Its teachings continue to inspire millions across the world,” Modi wrote, adding that the gift symbolized the enduring civilizational ties between the two nations.
Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/D2zczJXkU2
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025
President Putin landed at Delhi’s Palam Air Force Station on Thursday evening, where he was warmly welcomed by Prime Minister Modi. Calling Putin “my friend,” Modi expressed delight at receiving the Russian leader in India after a gap of four years. “I am delighted to welcome my friend President Putin to India.
I look forward to our discussions today and tomorrow. The India–Russia friendship is timeless and has immensely benefited our people,” Modi said. The two leaders travelled together from the airport to the Prime Minister’s residence at Lok Kalyan Marg — a gesture widely interpreted as a reflection of their strong personal rapport and the strategic depth of the Indo-Russian partnership.
Putin, who is on his first visit to India since 2021, will remain in New Delhi until Friday (Dec 5). He and Prime Minister Modi will hold the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, where both sides are expected to review and advance cooperation across key sectors including defence, trade, science and technology, culture, and humanitarian exchanges.
Former diplomat Arun Singh underscored the importance of the visit, calling it a “significant milestone” in India–Russia relations. Having served twice in Moscow — once during the Soviet era and then in the 1990s after the USSR’s dissolution — Singh noted that the partnership between the two countries has deep historical foundations.
