Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted the traditional Bihari sweet known as thekua to Richard Raši, Chairman of the Slovak National Council [1, 2].
The gesture serves as a cultural exchange designed to showcase Bihar’s culinary heritage while strengthening diplomatic ties between India and Slovakia [1, 3].
The exchange occurred on Friday at the conclusion of Modi’s visit to France and Slovakia [3]. The meeting took place at the Slovak National Council, where Raši serves as the speaker of the parliament [1, 2].
Thekua is a deep-fried snack traditional to the state of Bihar, often prepared during festivals. By presenting the delicacy, the Prime Minister aimed to provide a global tribute to the regional traditions of Bihar [1, 3].
Reports said the gift was part of a broader effort to deepen bilateral relations through soft power and cultural diplomacy [1, 3]. In addition to the sweet, some reports said Modi presented Raši with a book titled “Susruta” [1].
Other diplomatic gifts were distributed during the trip. While the thekua was presented to Raši, other reports said Modi gave a Kashmiri silk carpet to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico [4].
The reaction of the Slovak leader after tasting the Bihari delicacy has since gained attention online [2].
“Modi gifted the traditional Bihari sweet “thekua” to Raši as part of a cultural exchange.”
The use of regional delicacies like thekua in high-level diplomatic meetings reflects a strategy of 'gastro-diplomacy.' By highlighting specific state cultures rather than general national symbols, India seeks to project a more diverse and granular image of its cultural wealth to European partners, potentially opening doors for regional trade and tourism.
