Modi served world leaders a meatless meal, and his critics pounced

Choose editionSingaporeInternationalSign up now: Get insights on Asia's fast-moving developmentsIndian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends a session in the BRICS Plus/Outreach format of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Sept 13. PHOTO: EPAYan Zhuang and Alex TravelliPublished Sep 15, 2026, 09:15 AMUpdated Sep 15, 2026, 09:15 AMPrime Minister Narendra Modi served a strictly vegetarian meal at the BRICS summit, sparking criticism from political opponents who argued it misrepresented India's diverse cuisine.Modi's government defended the menu as reflecting India's regional traditions, highlighting food's role in cultural diplomacy and political identity.Diplomatic meals carry symbolic importance but can cause controversy if not managed carefully, as they aim to foster respect and good international relations.NEW DELHI – The world leaders who dined together at the BRICS summit in India over the weekend were served plate after plate of delicacies: Cubes of paneer simmered in gravy, Himalayan morel mushrooms with saffron, lentil broth with tomatoes and curry leaves.Meat was conspicuously absent.See more onGet unlimited access to exclusive stories and incisive insights from the ST newsroomNews titles published by SPH MediaMDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2026 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.