Kashmiri Flavours Shine at President Murmu’s Dinner for Swiss President
President Droupadi Murmu hosted Swiss President Guy Parmelin with a special Kashmiri menu featuring Kanna Guchh Pulao and Phirni at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The grand halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan were filled with the aromatic scents of the Himalayas on Monday evening as President Droupadi Murmu hosted a prestigious dinner for the Swiss Confederation President, Guy Parmelin. In a masterful display of culinary diplomacy, the menu placed the rich and diverse flavours of Kashmir at the very heart of the celebration.
A Taste of Kashmir on the Menu
The carefully curated banquet was designed to offer President Parmelin and his guests a deep dive into India's northern culinary heritage. The spread was headlined by the exquisite Kanna Guchh Pulao, a dish that highlights the unique earthy notes of Kashmiri mushrooms. This was accompanied by Tsok Wangun (khatte baingan) and the traditional, soft Sheermal roti.
To conclude the meal, the dessert selection offered a sweet journey through Kashmiri traditions, featuring:
- Phirni: A creamy, chilled rice pudding.
- Shufta: A rich, traditional dried fruit delicacy.
Complementing the food were traditional beverages that warmed the palate, including the fragrant Kashmiri Kahwa and the rustic Gur Chai hailing from the high altitudes of Ladakh.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Beyond the culinary delights, the evening served as a significant platform for strengthening the bond between India and Switzerland. Welcoming President Parmelin, President Murmu emphasized that both nations are united by shared democratic values and the rule of law. She noted that the relationship is rapidly evolving across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, and science.
President Murmu specifically pointed toward the "historic India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Partnership Agreement," noting that it opens vast doors for bilateral economic expansion. She also highlighted the significant role Swiss companies play in India's infrastructure, particularly in the construction of vital roads, railway bridges, and tunnels.
Future Frontiers: AI and Green Tech
Looking toward the future, the President encouraged Swiss entities to explore emerging technological landscapes in India. She suggested that there are massive opportunities for collaboration in:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Clean and Green Technology
- Research and Technology Transfer
The visit, which spans from October 5 to October 7, has already seen significant progress. Earlier in the day, President Parmelin held high-level discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House. The Prime Minister confirmed that the talks covered critical areas such as defence production, nuclear energy, mobility, and space exploration, as well as deeper cooperation in health, Yoga, and Ayurveda.
The banquet was also attended by Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, marking a high-profile gathering aimed at solidifying a partnership that promises immense benefits for the people of both India and Switzerland.