What to Expect from Putin's Upcoming Visit to India: A Friendship March in Varanasi

In anticipation of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India, a vibrant 'India-Russia Friendship March' took place in Varanasi. Organized by Vishal Bharat Sansthan, participants celebrated the longstanding ties between the two nations, showcasing their commitment to friendship and cooperation. As Putin prepares for discussions with Prime Minister Modi, the agenda includes enhancing defense collaboration and addressing global challenges. This visit is seen as a pivotal moment for strengthening bilateral relations and fostering peace. Discover more about the events leading up to this significant summit and what it means for India and Russia.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 4, 2025, 16:24 IST

Celebrating India-Russia Ties in Varanasi

Varanasi: On Thursday, a gathering in Varanasi held an "India-Russia Friendship March" to greet Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of his visit to India for an annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Since 2014, Varanasi has been the Lok Sabha constituency of PM Modi, although Putin's trip will be confined to the national capital.

The march, organized by Vishal Bharat Sansthan, commenced at Subhash Bhavan and concluded at the Munshi Premchand Smriti Gate.

Participants displayed posters of both Modi and Putin, chanting slogans like "Bharat-Russia sambandh zindabad," "Bharat-Russia ki dosti," and "World needs India-Russia friendship."

Supporters performed aarti in front of Putin's photograph and played traditional drums, celebrating his visit as that of a distinguished guest.

Rajeev ShriGuruji, the national president of Vishal Bharat Sansthan, emphasized that India and Russia are "natural friends" who support each other during challenging times.

"Modi and Putin are global leaders dedicated to upholding democracy, borders, and sovereignty. Together, they will guide the world towards peace," he stated, noting that Putin's visit signifies a "global transformation."

Dr. Archana Bharatvanshi, the organization's national general secretary, mentioned that the relationship between the two nations would greatly benefit Indian youth, especially in the fields of technical and medical education.

Dr. Najma Parveen, national president of the Muslim Women Foundation, expressed that Putin's visit would "write a new chapter in history," hoping it would enhance bilateral friendship and contribute to global peace.

Putin is set to arrive in New Delhi on Thursday for a brief 28-hour visit, during which he will engage in the 23rd India-Russia summit with PM Modi. The discussions will focus on enhancing defense cooperation, shielding bilateral trade from external pressures, and exploring energy ties, small modular reactors, and the repercussions of Western sanctions on oil trade.

PM Modi will host a private dinner for Putin on Thursday and a working lunch on Friday. Additionally, the Russian leader is expected to visit Rajghat and attend a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu.

Both nations are anticipated to sign multiple agreements covering trade, defense, and labor mobility, amidst global scrutiny regarding the Ukraine conflict and India's advocacy for dialogue and diplomacy.