A high-level delegation from the Republic of Kalmykia, led by Batu Khasikov, Head of the Republic of Kalmykia, had arrived in India on an official visit to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between Russia and India. The visit highlighted the shared values, cultural bonds, and a common vision for global peace and security.
In New Delhi, Mr. Khasikov held discussions with Sh. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism and Culture, Government of India, focusing on strengthening cultural and spiritual cooperation. Both representatives agreed that during the Tulip Festival in April 2026, India Days will be celebrated in Kalmykia, showcasing Indian culture, traditions, and tourism.
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During the meeting with India’s Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, the discussion focused on establishing sister-state relations between Kalmykia and one of India’s states, as well as searching for new directions for expanding cooperation. This will create a foundation for joint projects in tourism, education, and the preservation of spiritual heritage.
On this occasion, Batu Khasikov invited both Indian ministers to take part in the 3rd International Buddhist Forum, which will be held in Elista in September 2025. The participation of representatives from the country where Buddhism originated more than two and a half thousand years ago adds special symbolism to this event.
One of the Forum’s most historic and unprecedented events will be the arrival of the sacred relics of Buddha Shakyamuni from the National Museum of India to Kalmykia. For the first time in Russia’s history, devotees will have the opportunity to venerate these relics in a week-long exhibition. This landmark moment, held under the patronage of President Vladimir Putin, will unite Buddhist communities and spiritual seekers from across the globe.
Batu Khasikov, Head of the Republic of Kalmykia:
“The relations between our countries are at the level of a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Russia and India are developing common approaches to ensuring global peace and security, and to shaping a new architecture of the world order.”
India will also present a consecrated statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, which will take its place of honor in the developing Buddhist Park in Elista, envisioned as a global cultural hub and a place of spiritual power for Russia.
India and Russia continue to uphold a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, strengthened by decades of mutual trust and support. Mr. Shekhawat emphasized that the relationship is truly “heart-to-heart,” recalling how Russia has always stood by India during its most difficult times.
During the visit, talks were also held with Ms. Nandini Singla, Director of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). The parties agreed to send a Buddhist scholar from India to the university and to establish an “Indian Corner” at Kalmyk State University. This is particularly relevant given that around 100 students from India are currently enrolled at the university. In addition, by the opening of the India Cultural Days within the Tulip Festival, India will present Kalmykia with a consecrated statue of Buddha.
The visit also came at a time as Russia commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory in the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945). The invaluable contribution of Indian soldiers, who fought alongside Soviet troops, remains a cornerstone of this shared history.
Kalmykia, the westernmost center of Buddhism and home to Europe’s only Buddhist-majority population, is positioning itself as a unique destination for cultural and spiritual tourism. In 2024, the republic welcomed 460,000 tourists and 1.8 million day visitors, reflecting a growing global interest.
The Buddhist Park in Elista will present miniature replicas of architectural landmarks from major Buddhist countries, with India given a place of honor. The initiative aims to promote deeper awareness of Indian culture among Russians, while also fostering educational and cultural tourism between the two nations.
