India showcases regional culture at 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi

The 18th BRICS Summit, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on September 12-13, 2026, features a heavy emphasis on Indian cultural and culinary diplomacy. As world leaders gather, the Ministry of External Affairs has curated special welcome kits and menus to showcase India’s regional diversity and the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.

Delegates and journalists are receiving goodie bags containing nine items, including Bihar’s sattu and makhana, Odisha’s tribal-grown Koraput Arabica coffee, and block-printed textiles from Gujarat. The kits also include modern amenities like a tote bag and a built-in charging port.

Luxury hotels in Lutyens' Delhi, such as the Taj Mahal Hotel, are hosting guests with ‘Tradition to Table’ menus. These offerings include regional specialties like Kashmiri spiced walnuts, Rajasthani mini kachori, Bengali kucho nimki, and Tamil Nadu murukku. The summit also includes a ‘BRICS Bazaar’ at the National Crafts Museum, showcasing arts and crafts from member and partner nations, ranging from Brazilian clay art to Belarusian willow weaving.