President Droupadi Murmu on Monday hosted the traditional ‘At Home’ reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with a focus on showcasing the culture, arts and cuisine of India’s northeastern states. The event was attended by dignitaries from India and abroad.
President Murmu welcomed guests with shawls made of Eri silk, commonly referred to as ‘peace silk’. The use of Eri silk was intended to highlight the traditional textile heritage and economic significance of northeastern India while honouring the invitees.
Senior constitutional authorities present at the reception included Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, Chief Justice Suryakant, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi.
Foreign dignitaries attending the Republic Day celebrations also participated in the reception. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen were present at the event.
According to the President’s Office, guests were served a range of cuisines from the northeastern states, reflecting regional diversity and traditional flavours. Attendees described the dishes as representative of the cultural identity of the region.
Official photographs from the event showed President Murmu, Vice President Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Modi and foreign guests watching cultural performances by artists from the northeastern states. The presentations included dance, music and handicrafts depicting regional diversity.
The President’s Secretariat stated that the Eri silk shawls were intended not only as a gesture of welcome but also as a representation of the traditional textile practices of northeastern India and its cultural heritage.
During interactions with guests, President Murmu said that the art, culture and cuisine of the northeastern states reflect India’s diversity and richness.
