A State-To-State Culinary Feast: Inside PM Modi’s Vegetarian Dinner For NDA Leaders
Last Updated:December 12, 2025, 18:28 ISTFollowing NDA's recent success in the Bihar elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted an all-vegetarian dinner at his residence for the politicians.Around 54 tables have been arranged for the dinner, each seating eight MPs from across alliance partners along with BJP MPs. (File Image: PTI)At a time when political gatherings often make headlines for strategy and symbolism, it was the food that commanded attention at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent dinner for National Democratic Alliance MPs. Held at the Prime Minister’s residence at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, the evening unfolded not just as a celebration of the NDA’s strong mandate in the Bihar elections, but also as a deliberate showcase of India’s diverse vegetarian culinary heritage. The meal was crafted as a journey through regions, traditions and ingredients – quietly emphasising the government’s continued focus on millets, seasonal produce and nutrient-forward Indian cooking.A Menu That Spanned The MapThe dinner opened with refreshing sips of orange juice with ginger and pomegranate juice, keeping the palate light before the more elaborate courses. The tone of the meal was set with Subz Badam Shorba, a velvety soup where slow-cooked vegetables met finely ground almonds – an elegant, almost Mughlai-inspired start.Regional appetisers came next, each rooted in distinct culinary cultures. Kakum Matar Akhrot Ki Shammi, made with foxtail millet, green peas and crushed walnuts, offered a nutty, nutritious twist on the classic shammi kebab. Kothimbir Vadi, a beloved Maharashtrian tea-time snack, arrived crisp on the outside and soft within, reminding the table of home-style comfort.Main Courses That Celebrated India’s Depth Of FlavourThe mains were designed as a curated tour of Indian vegetarian excellence. Gongura Paneer, drawing on Andhra’s signature tangy sorrel leaves, brought sharpness and heat. The Khubani Malai Kofta leaned in the opposite direction. It was rich, creamy and inspired by Awadhi indulgence, with apricot-filled dumplings simmered in cashew gravy.Winter vegetables appeared in thoughtful combinations: Gajar Methi Matar delivered sweet carrots tempered with fenugreek and fresh peas, while Bhindi Sambhariya drew from Gujarat’s sambhariya tradition, stuffed with a blend of sesame, peanuts and jaggery. The comforting Palakura Pappu, a spinach-infused dal from Andhra Pradesh, acted as the grounding element on the plate.The centrepiece grain was the Kale Moti Chilgoza Pulao, a delicate basmati rice dish speckled with whole black gram and toasted pine nuts, paired with an assortment of rotis, naans and laccha parathas.A Sweet Finish With Regional SignaturesDessert honoured both tradition and innovation. The Baked Pista Langcha reimagined the Bengali classic, while Ada Pradaman, Kerala’s festive favourite made with rice flakes, palm jaggery and coconut milk, added warmth and depth. Fresh fruit and kahwah brought a gentle close to the meal.More than a celebratory spread, the all-vegetarian menu reflected India’s culinary plurality – from Andhra Pradesh to Kerala, Gujarat to Maharashtra. With millet-based dishes, nut-forward preparations and a strong regional backbone, the dinner highlighted an evolving narrative: Indian vegetarian cuisine can be both rooted and refined, traditional yet forward-looking.Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Location :Delhi, India, IndiaFirst Published:December 12, 2025, 18:28 ISTNews lifestyle food A State-To-State Culinary Feast: Inside PM Modi’s Vegetarian Dinner For NDA LeadersDisclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
