Traditional culinary delicacies from Northeast India were featured prominently at the Republic Day high tea hosted by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The official menu included dishes from Assam, Tripura, Nagaland, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju highlighted the event on social media, noting the vibrant North-East cuisine enjoyed by dignitaries including European Council President António Costa and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Key Assamese dishes included Til Pitha, Til Laru, and Narikol Laru, which are integral to the Magh Bihu festival, as well as Black Rice Kheer known for its cultural significance. Pati Sapta, a winter delicacy common to Assam and Tripura, was also part of the offering, showcasing the culinary connections between the two states. From Tripura, the GI-tagged Matabari Peda, celebrated for its cardamom-infused flavor, represented local traditions. Additional offerings included Khapse, a snack from Arunachal Pradesh, underscoring the region’s diversity. The curated menu celebrated indigenous ingredients and time-honored recipes, marking an important recognition of Assam’s food culture within the broader North-Eastern identity during a national celebration. The event also featured cultural dances from the Northeast, further enriching the experience and emphasizing India’s cultural diversity with Assamese flavors at the forefront.
