Russian President Vladimir Putin reached New Delhi for a two-day high-profile visit, marking his first trip to India since the Ukraine war began. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed him at the airport, where traditional cultural performances were arranged.
But what stole the spotlight online were viral videos from Varanasi, where locals held special pooja ceremonies with Putin’s framed photos — lighting diyas, singing bhajans, and even performing aarti as if welcoming a deity.
Social media erupted with memes, jokes, and mixed reactions, pushing the clips across Indian and global timelines.
Putin is in India to attend the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, with major talks expected on fighter jets, defense systems, and strategic military cooperation as India looks to upgrade its defense capabilities.
