What Book Did PM Modi Gift Vladimir Putin? Know Why It Is So Special

On the sidelines of the BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented Russian President Vladimir Putin with a specially commissioned Russian translation of the ancient Tamil literary masterpiece, the Thirukkural. The formal gesture occurred during bilateral discussions hosted ahead of the main summit proceedings at Bharat Mandapam. Published by the Central Institute of Classical Tamil, the edition features the original Tamil verses alongside transliterations and a Russian rendering by translator Naira Mkrtchyan.

A Symbol of Soft Power and Cultural Exchange

The exchange underscores India’s continued use of civilizational literature as a core tool of soft power diplomacy during high-profile international summits. By presenting translated texts of traditional Indian philosophical works, New Delhi aims to highlight shared global values through historical wisdom. The volume given to President Putin was designed specifically to facilitate cross-cultural engagement, offering readers accessible entry points to classical Indian thought without losing the linguistic integrity of the original text. PM Narendra Modi, Vladimir Putin Hold Bilateral Talks Ahead of BRICS Summit 2026 (Video).

What Is the Thirukkural?

Authored by the revered Tamil poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar, the Thirukkural is one of the most celebrated works in classical Indian literature. Comprising 1,330 couplets (or kurals) divided into 133 chapters, the text focuses on universal human values, statecraft, ethics, and social conduct.

Unlike many ancient works that center strictly on religious doctrine, the Thirukkural is largely secular in tone, offering practical guidance on governance, justice, duty, and interpersonal relationships. Its focus on principled leadership and economic prudence makes it a frequent reference point in modern diplomatic gifts. BRICS Summit 2026: From Vladimir Putin to Xi Jinping, Who’s Coming to Delhi for PM Modi’s Big Summit?.

Cultural Diplomacy at BRICS 2026

The exchange highlights a broader trend in PM Modi’s diplomatic protocol during global summits. Over recent years, India's leadership has routinely presented visiting foreign dignitaries with translated works of Indian literature, local handcrafts, and historical artifacts representing various regions of the country.

The gesture came amid bilateral conversations between India and Russia covering energy cooperation, trade, and regional security during the multilateral gathering in New Delhi.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 11, 2026 04:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).