Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a traditional Russian welcome featuring local delicacies upon his arrival in Kazan on Tuesday for the BRICS summit.
Women in traditional Tatar attire presented the Indian Prime Minister with two significant regional specialities: chak-chak, a honey-glazed pastry, and korovai, a ceremonial bread.
PM Modi in Russia to attend BRICS Summit
The welcome ceremony, which took place in Russia’s fifth-largest city, highlighted the cultural heritage of the Tatarstan region, where Kazan serves as the capital.
Located at the intersection of the Volga and Kazanka rivers, Kazan represents a unique blend of Russian and Turkic cultural influences.
What to Chak-Chak?
Chak-chak, recognized as Tatarstan’s national dessert, consists of deep-fried wheat dough pieces bound together with honey-sugar syrup. The preparation method involves cutting unleavened dough into small shapes, frying them until golden, and then coating them with a sweet syrup mixture that acts as a binding agent.
“Chak-chak is not only a staple at everyday gatherings but also plays a significant role in traditional celebrations, including weddings,” explains Emilia, a resident of Yekaterinburg. “The dish symbolizes a strong and large family,” she adds, noting its Bulgarian origins dating back to the Soviet era when Bulgaria maintained close ties with the USSR.
A taste of cultural traditions to PM Modi
The second offering, korovai, represents an equally important cultural tradition. This ceremonial bread, adorned with intricate floral patterns, holds deep significance in Eastern Slavic customs. “Korovai is a popular ritual bakery product that has its origins in the Eastern Slavic lands,” Emilia notes. The bread’s round shape reportedly pays homage to ancient Slavic sun worship traditions.
The elaborate preparation of korovai involves multiple layers of wheat dough woven together to create an ornate loaf. Its presence at ceremonies, particularly weddings, symbolizes unity and prosperity. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, another BRICS attendee, reportedly expressed admiration for the bread’s craftsmanship.
A fascinating historical tradition associated with korovai involves sharing bread with salt. “In the past, tasting a piece of loaf with salt symbolised entering into friendly relations with the host, as well as sharing in all his burdens and cares,” Emilia explains.
What does the welcome ceremony signify?
The welcome ceremony in Kazan exemplifies how culinary traditions continue to play a vital role in modern diplomacy. By sharing these culturally significant foods, the host nation extends more than just hospitality – it offers visiting dignitaries a taste of local heritage and tradition.
BRICS Summit in Kazan
The two-day BRICS summit in Kazan brings together leaders from major emerging economies, with this traditional welcome ceremony setting a tone of cultural exchange and mutual respect. Through these carefully chosen delicacies, Russia showcases the rich cultural tapestry of its Tatarstan region while fostering diplomatic relationships through shared culinary experiences.
The event demonstrates how traditional foods can serve as a bridge between nations, making complex diplomatic encounters more personal and relatable through the universal language of hospitality and shared meals.
