New Delhi is preparing to welcome the spouses of BRICS member nation leaders for a curated cultural experience as part of India's presidency of the multilateral grouping's 2026 summit. Organisers have designed a dedicated itinerary that takes participants away from formal summit venues and into the heart of Delhi's artistic and historical landscape.
The planned programme encompasses visits to prominent museums showcasing India's rich civilisational heritage, guided tours of centuries-old heritage sites, and interactive sessions with master artisans and craftspeople. These activities aim to give spouses an immersive glimpse into India's cultural traditions while fostering informal diplomatic connections among women from diverse nations.
BRICS, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and several newer member states, has increasingly placed importance on people-to-people contacts alongside high-level political dialogue. The spouses programme reflects a growing trend at major international summits where partner events and cultural excursions serve as soft diplomacy tools.
Delhi was chosen as the host city partly for its extraordinary concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and museums, including the National Museum, which houses artefacts spanning thousands of years of Indian history. Heritage walks through areas like Chandni Chowk and nearby Mughal-era monuments are expected to feature on the schedule.
Artisan encounters will likely showcase India's celebrated craft traditions, ranging from intricate textile work to metalware and pottery. These hands-on experiences are designed to highlight the skills of local craftspeople while providing spouses with meaningful souvenirs that reflect India's living cultural heritage.
The spouses programme typically runs parallel to the main summit schedule, allowing participants to engage in cultural activities during the days when leaders are occupied with negotiations and formal sessions. Such side events have become a standard feature of India's approach to hosting major international gatherings, emphasising hospitality and cultural exchange as integral components of diplomacy.
