Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin to Delhi on Thursday and presented him with a special gift, a Russian-language copy of the Bhagavad Gita, one of India’s most respected scriptures. Putin is in India for a two-day visit.

Modi shared a photo of the moment on X and wrote, “Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world.”

Putin landed in Delhi on Thursday evening and was received by PM Modi at the airport. The two leaders then travelled together to the Prime Minister’s residence on Lok Kalyan Marg, a short ride that showed their comfortable and friendly equation.

This is the Russian President’s first visit to India since 2021. He will remain in Delhi until December 5. During the visit, Modi and Putin will take part in the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, which helps set the plan for cooperation between the two countries every year.

Officials and experts say India and Russia have stayed connected through areas like defence, trade, technology, and culture for many decades.

Former diplomat Arun Singh, who served twice in Moscow, said the trust between the two countries has grown over many years. Speaking to ANI, he noted India still remembers Russia’s support on global issues, including at the UN Security Council.

He said, "I could sense that there is a historical nature to the partnership. There is confidence in the relationship on both sides. In India, there is a memory of Russia being an important partner that has provided political support that we've needed from time to time, including at the UN Security Council."