On Thursday evening, following the arrival of Russian President Vladimir Putin for his two-day state visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose a gift of deep cultural and spiritual significance to mark their private engagement: a Russian-language copy of the Bhagavad Gita. The presentation, which took place during a private dinner hosted by PM Modi at his official residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, underscored the unique blend of strategic and civilizational ties that define the India-Russia friendship.
Sharing the moment on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister highlighted the universal appeal of the sacred Hindu scripture, writing: “Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world.” This gesture moved beyond the traditional exchange of commercial or defense-related memorabilia, instead choosing to focus on India's rich spiritual heritage as a cultural bridge 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
Weaving Soft Power into High Diplomacy
Analysts view the choice of the Russian Gita as a deliberate exercise in soft power diplomacy. At a time when the world stage is fraught with geopolitical tensions, and New Delhi works to balance its historic relationship with Moscow against its growing partnerships with the West, this cultural exchange sends a powerful message. It signals that the "special and privileged strategic partnership" between India and Russia is not merely transactional, but rests on a foundation of mutual respect and shared historical/cultural appreciation.
The Bhagavad Gita, a central text of Indian philosophy focusing on duty, devotion, and the path to spiritual knowledge, has a strong presence across academic and spiritual circles globally. Presenting a Russian translation specifically resonates with the historical interest in Indian philosophy within Russia, reinforcing the cultural and humanitarian dimension of the bilateral cooperation.
23rd India-Russia Annual Summit
President Putin's visit is highly significant, marking his first trip to India in a four years. Earlier in the evening, in a rare diplomatic gesture that highlighted their close personal rapport, PM Modi personally received the Russian President at Palam Airport, and the two leaders then shared a car ride to the Prime Minister’s residence.
While the warm optics, including the cultural gift exchange, set a positive tone, the visit's primary focus remains on key strategic areas. The two leaders are scheduled to hold the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with discussions expected to cover the full spectrum of the partnership, including defense cooperation, energy security, trade expansion, and collaboration in emerging technologies. The gift of the Gita, therefore, serves as a powerful reminder that these strategic deliberations are conducted within the framework of a time-tested, multi-dimensional friendship.
