When Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kazan, Russia, for the BRICS Summit, he was welcomed with two traditional Russian delicacies that carried deep cultural and symbolic significance: chak-chak laddus and a korovai cake. This gesture of hospitality, presented by local women dressed in traditional Tatar attire, highlighted the unique culinary traditions of the Tatar and Bashkir regions, where Kazan, located at the confluence of the Volga and Kazanka rivers, stands as a melting pot of Turkic and Slavic influences.
The offering of chak-chak, a sweet made of fried wheat dough, symbolized more than just a warm welcome. Chak-chak, considered the national sweet of Tatarstan, is a dish that holds a central place in the region’s cultural identity. Its preparation involves cutting unleavened dough into small pieces, which are then deep-fried and drizzled with a hot syrup made of honey and sugar. The result is a mound of golden, crispy dough pieces that are bound together by the sweet syrup. This dish is not only a staple at everyday gatherings but is also a significant part of traditional celebrations such as weddings. In Tatar culture, chak-chak is seen as a symbol of family unity and strength, making it an appropriate offering during important events that foster relationships, whether personal or diplomatic.
Chak-chak’s round shape and sweet taste bear a resemblance to similar sweets from other parts of the world, such as "murhi-ka-laai" from Bihar or "mua" from Odisha, underscoring the universality of food as a cultural bridge. By offering this dish to PM Modi, Russia showcased its rich heritage and shared in the universal language of hospitality. Chak-chak also has roots in Bulgarian culture, which was closely allied with the Soviet Union during the Cold War era. This historical connection adds another layer of significance to the dish, as it represents both a regional tradition and a broader historical tie.
The second offering, korovai, is a round, intricately decorated loaf of bread with deep roots in Slavic traditions. Korovai is a central feature in Russian and Eastern European weddings, symbolizing unity, prosperity, and fertility. The bread’s preparation involves weaving multiple layers of dough, often adorned with floral designs, to create a visually stunning loaf. Its round shape is said to represent the sun, an ancient symbol of life, energy, and abundance, which the Slavic people once worshiped. Traditionally, the bread is shared among wedding guests as a symbol of goodwill and the hope for a prosperous future for the newlyweds.Â
Korovai also plays a role in diplomacy, as sharing bread is an age-old gesture of friendship and cooperation. In the context of PM Modi's visit, the presentation of this bread conveyed a message of unity between Russia and India. The ritual of offering bread with salt, historically used to welcome guests and symbolize entering into friendly relations, further emphasized the bond between the two nations. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, another BRICS leader attending the summit, expressed his admiration for the korovai, recognizing the cultural and diplomatic significance of the gesture.
Kazan, the city hosting the BRICS Summit, is renowned for its rich cultural diversity and historical significance. As one of Russia’s oldest cities, it has long been a meeting point of different cultures, particularly those of Turkic and Slavic origins. The culinary traditions of the Tatar and Bashkir people, including the making of chak-chak and korovai, are a reflection of this diverse heritage. By welcoming PM Modi and other world leaders with these traditional dishes, Russia was not only showcasing its own cultural richness but also offering a taste of the region's history and traditions, reminding the world of the importance of cultural exchange in fostering strong diplomatic ties.
This symbolic sharing of food underscored the deeper themes of the BRICS Summit itself—cooperation, mutual respect, and the pursuit of common goals. As PM Modi enjoyed the Russian delights, the gesture of hospitality spoke volumes about the close relationship between India and Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin has often referred to Modi as a "good friend," and the warmth of this reception further highlighted the deep personal rapport between the two leaders. Their meeting in Kazan, Modi’s second visit to Russia in three months, reflected the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations, rooted in shared interests, mutual respect, and a long history of cooperation in various fields, from defense to energy.
As global leaders gathered in Kazan to discuss important geopolitical and economic issues, the simple act of sharing traditional food helped build bridges between different cultures and foster a sense of unity. In diplomacy, such gestures often play a critical role in establishing trust and goodwill. The offering of chak-chak and korovai not only symbolized the warmth of Russia’s welcome but also represented the deep ties that bind the BRICS nations together.
Ultimately, these dishes were more than just culinary delights; they were a reflection of the rich history and culture of the region, a reminder of the importance of hospitality in international relations, and a symbol of the shared values that unite countries. In a world often divided by politics and conflict, gestures like these serve as a powerful reminder that food, culture, and tradition can bring people together and build lasting relationships. The BRICS Summit in Kazan, marked by such meaningful exchanges, will likely be remembered as much for its cultural diplomacy as for the political discussions that took place.
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