New Delhi, May 7: Indian President Droupadi Murmu hosted Vietnam’s President To Lam at the Rashtrapati Bhavan during his first state visit to India. This event highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. The banquet featured traditional dishes from Bihar and Maharashtra, showcasing India’s rich culinary heritage.
President Murmu emphasized the deep historical, civilizational, and cultural ties that strengthen the relationship between India and Vietnam. While welcoming President To Lam, she noted Vietnam’s significant role in India’s ‘Act East’ policy and the broader strategic partnership with ASEAN.
The banquet included special delicacies from Bihar, such as Silao Khaja, Gaya Anarsa, Mithila Makhana, and Hajipur Malbhog Banana.
Silao Khaja is a renowned traditional sweet from Nalanda, known for its delicate, layered texture and awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Gaya Anarsa, another traditional dish, is made from soaked rice flour and jaggery, offering a soft, melt-in-the-mouth experience. Mithila Makhana, or fox nuts, is a premium product from the Mithila region, recognized for its nutritional benefits. Hajipur Malbhog Banana, cultivated in Hajipur, is famous for its exquisite taste and quality.
From Maharashtra, the banquet featured Ratnagiri Mangoes, celebrated for their rich flavor and also awarded a GI tag. Healthy Millet Bars, made from locally grown millets, reflect Maharashtra’s agricultural heritage and nutritional value.
Additionally, President To Lam received unique gifts, including a brass statue of Buddha in meditation, a Bodhi tree, and silk fabric.
The Namoh 108 (lotus) variety, developed by the National Botanical Research Institute in Lucknow, holds cultural significance, bridging ancient Indian heritage with modern biotechnological achievements. The lotus features 108 petals, symbolizing spiritual completeness in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions.
The brass statue, crafted by skilled artisans from Moradabad, depicts Buddha in a compassionate pose, surrounded by intricately detailed branches resembling the Bodhi tree. The reflective surface of the brass adds warmth and brilliance to the piece.
The silk fabric, originating from the historic city of Varanasi, showcases exquisite textile artistry with a beautiful jacquard weave pattern. When crafted into traditional attire, it represents a harmonious blend of Indian heritage and Vietnamese elegance.
–
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
Leave a Comment