Sanjay Pandita
Early Times Report
Jammu, Dec 6: Upset over not inviting Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to the state banquet hosted in honour of Russian President Vladimir Putin at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Congress on Saturday sharpened its attack on the government—this time criticising the all-vegetarian menu served at the event.
Congress MP Karti Chidambaram strongly objected to the absence of meat, fish, fowl, and Indian wines at the banquet, accusing the BJP-led government of attempting to impose what he termed “puritanical vegetarianism” under the guise of cultural pride.
“Completely vegetarian? Why?” Chidambaram wrote on X, questioning why a state banquet meant to showcase India’s culinary richness excluded non-vegetarian dishes and alcoholic beverages.
“To acknowledge and celebrate Indian cuisine, dishes of meat, fowl, and seafood should have been included. Indian wines should have featured too. Nearly 80% of Indians consume meat, fowl or fish. It’s an intrinsic part of our food culture. This ‘puritanical’ vegetarian thrust is a BJP and allied outfits co Congress MP Karti Chidambaram strongly objected to the absence of meat, fish, fowl, and Indian wines at the banquet
He accused the BJP-led government of attempting to impose what he termed “puritanical vegetarianism” under the guise of cultural pride.
To acknowledge and celebrate Indian cuisine, dishes of meat, fowl, and seafood should have been included.
The banquet, hosted by President Droupadi Murmu on Friday, December 6, featured a detailed two-page vegetarian menu for President Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers, and diplomats from both nations.
The menu opened with Murungelai Chaaru, a mild moringa-and-moong broth. Appetisers included Gucchi Doon Chetin (stuffed morels with white walnut chutney), Kaale Chane Ke Shikampuri Kebabs, and Vegetable Jhol Momos.
The main course featured Zaafrani Paneer Roll, Palak Methi Matar Ka Saag, Tandoori Bharwan Aloo, Achaari Baingan, and Dal Tadka, followed by desserts such as Badam Halwa, Kesar Pista Kulfi, and a fresh fruit platter.
President Putin departed from Delhi soon after the dinner, with External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar seeing him off.
During his two-day visit, Putin and Prime Minister Modi co-chaired the India–Russia Annual Summit, where both leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation, enhance connectivity through efficient transport corridors, and elevate the economic partnership to “new heights” by 2030. |
