A culinary delight: Inside the hi-tea menu at Rashtrapati Bhavan for Republic Day

President Droupadi Murmu hosted "At Home" reception on the occasion of 76th Republic Day at Rashtrapati Bhavan. (Image: Rashtrapati Bhavan/X)

Rashtrapati Bhavan’s Republic Day "At Home" reception this year combined culinary excellence with cultural vibrancy, offering guests a unique blend of South Indian traditions. Hosted by President Droupadi Murmu, the event featured a specially curated menu rooted in South Indian delicacies and a captivating lineup of performances by renowned Carnatic musicians.

The menu, crafted to highlight South Indian cuisine, took center stage with its exquisite offerings. Starting with savory items like Gongura Pickle Stuffed Kuzhi Paniyaram (pan-fried fermented rice dumplings filled with tangy sorrel leaf pickle) and Andhra Mini Onion Samosas paired with tomato-peanut chutney, the spread was a homage to traditional South Indian snacks.

Classics like Mini Masala Uttapam with Podi, Udupi Uddina Vada, and Karuveppilai Podi Ghee Mini Ragi Idli added rich flavors, while Kondakadalai Sundal (spiced chickpeas) and crispy delights such as Murukku, Banana Chips, and Tapioca Chips offered guests a variety of textures to savor.

President Droupadi Murmu hosted "At Home" reception on the occasion of 76th Republic Day at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Apart from the important dignitaries, many eminent citizens who have made remarkable contributions in different fields shared space with the beneficiaries of various pic.twitter.com/xfpcC6TVw3
President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 26, 2025

The dessert section was equally indulgent, featuring regional favorites such as Rawa Kesari, a saffron-infused semolina sweet, and the iconic Mysore Pak, a condensed milk-based delicacy. The intricate Dry Fruit Putharekalu, a flaky rice pastry filled with jaggery and nuts, was a standout treat, while Ragi Ladoos, served exclusively to VVIPs, added a modern, health-focused touch to the traditional menu.

Guests could pair these delicacies with beverages like Nilgiri Green Tea, Tender Coconut Water, and South India’s beloved Filter Coffee, completing the authentic culinary journey.

Adding to the festive spirit, an exceptional ensemble of Carnatic instrumentalists graced the occasion, showcasing the depth of India’s musical heritage.

Ms. Aishwarya Manikarnike, a Carnatic veena virtuoso educated by her grandmother, Smt. M.K. Saraswathi, captivated the audience with her soulful performances. She is a "A" grade performer with All India Radio, has played at prominent festivals across the country, and received the Madras Music Academy's Raga Laya Prabha Award in 2022.

Shri Sumanth Manjunath, a Mysore University gold medalist and master violinist educated by his father, Shri Mysore Manjunath, also performed during the evening. His artistry, which he had previously done at Oxford and Cambridge Universities, added to the event's international appeal.

Shri B.C. Manjunath, an outstanding mridangam performer, demonstrated his versatility by mixing Indian classical rhythms with modern jazz and fusion genres. He has collaborated with giants such as Pandit Ravi Shankar and performed in more than 60 countries.

Shri N. Rajkamal, a Carnatic flautist, enthralled the audience with his brilliant performance. He received a Senior Fellowship from the Ministry of Culture and has cooperated with the Symphony Orchestra of Poland, mixing Indian and Western classical genres.

Shri R. Teja, a thavil and nadaswaram master, completed the lineup and demonstrated his rhythmic prowess. His performance, as the Guinness World Record holder for the largest Carnatic band, energized the evening.

Shri G. Guru Prasanna, a Khanjira virtuoso, provided a special touch to the musical offerings. He is a "A-Top" grade performer with All India Radio, known for his mastery of this traditional frame drum, and has performed with India's best musicians.

President Murmu's "At Home" event was a cultural convergence, perfectly combining India's culinary and artistic traditions. The evening not only commemorated Republic Day, but also highlighted the country's unique and dynamic legacy.