When Russian President Vladimir Putin visited New Delhi today, his first act was dramatic and symbolic. He walked to Rajghat — the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi — and signed the visitors’ book. In a heartfelt note, he described Gandhi as “the founder of modern independent India, a humanist, and a great freedom fighter.” With that gesture, Putin seemed to send a clear signal: respect for peace, non-violence, and shared values at a time of global conflict.
What Did Putin Write About Mahatma Gandhi?
In his short message, Putin praised Gandhi’s lifelong dedication to peace and truth. He wrote (in Russian), “Mahatma Gandhi made an invaluable contribution to the cause of peace on our planet through non-violence and truth, the influence of which remains relevant to this day. … Gandhi showed the path toward a new, fairer, multipolar world order … In his teachings on equality, mutual respect, and cooperation, India today — together with the people of the world — defends these very principles and values on the international stage. Russia does the same.”
#WATCH | Delhi | Russian President Vladimir Putin signs the visitors’ book at the Rajghat, where he paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
(Video: DD) pic.twitter.com/uyNMlNLSkm
— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025
This tribute strikes a powerful note, especially in current times. By invoking Gandhi’s ideals, Putin linked the historic legacy of non-violence and moral leadership to contemporary global geopolitics.
23rd India-Russia Annual Summit
Putin is in India for a two-day state visit to attend the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit. On arrival, he received a ceremonial guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan, greeted by Narendra Modi and Droupadi Murmu.
The summit aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in defence, energy, trade, and labour mobility. In light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the visit carries extra diplomatic weight. Observers say paying tribute to Gandhi — a global symbol of peace — could signal Russia’s intent to underscore soft power and moral diplomacy during tense international times.
Symbolism Behind the Rajghat Tribute
Why did Putin go to Rajghat first? And why evoke Gandhi now?
- The act of paying homage at Rajghat is more than ceremonial — it is symbolic. It presents a narrative that even amid global conflict, respect for peace, non-violence, and international cooperation remains alive.
- Given the war in Ukraine, critics and supporters alike will view this as a carefully chosen message — a bid by Russia to project a peaceful image despite ongoing military action abroad.
- For India, hosting this event at Gandhi’s memorial reinforces its role as a global moral conscience and showcases its diplomatic balancing act between major powers.
India-Russia Annual Summit: Summit Talks & Global Eye
After Rajghat, Putin and Modi will convene for high-profile talks at Hyderabad House. The agenda includes defence deals, energy cooperation, and broader trade and strategic partnerships.
The world watches closely — not just for deals, but for the diplomatic tone India and Russia set. The tribute at Rajghat may shape how this summit is perceived globally: as business-driven, values-oriented, or both.
