New Delhi is in the midst of intensive preparations for the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit, scheduled to take place on September 12 and 13 at the sprawling Bharat Mandapam complex in the capital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a distinguished roster of global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, among others, during the two-day gathering.
At the heart of the diplomatic arrangements is an elaborately designed dinner menu that puts regional Indian cuisine centre stage. The spread features Galouti kebabs from Uttar Pradesh, Bhakarwadi from Maharashtra, and Kachori from Rajasthan, offering visiting delegates a curated taste of India's diverse culinary heritage. The menu has been carefully assembled to reflect the country's regional food traditions rather than relying solely on conventional diplomatic fare.
Meanwhile, five-star hotels across the capital have been operating under heightened security and logistical plans for several weeks. Properties such as ITC Maurya and The Taj Palace have been coordinating closely with official organizers to ensure seamless hospitality for heads of state and their entourages. Guest rooms have been customized with personalised amenities, while traditional Indian gifts and bespoke welcome packages have been prepared for each delegation.
The summit represents one of India's most prominent multilateral hosting engagements this year, drawing leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and additional partner nations. Beyond the formal talks, the cultural programme surrounding the event — including the food offerings and ceremonial welcomes — has been treated as a significant component of India's soft-power presentation on the global stage.
Security deployments across central Delhi are being stepped up in advance of the visits, with movement restrictions expected around key venues. Officials have indicated that the hospitality arrangements are among the most elaborate the country has mounted for a multilateral gathering in recent years, reflecting the strategic importance India places on the BRICS platform and its own role within it.
