Kalmykia delegation in India to boost cultural and spiritual ties
A high-level delegation from Kalmykia, led by Batu Khasikov, is visiting India to strengthen cultural and spiritual cooperation. Key outcomes include India Days during the Tulip Festival, Buddha relics exhibition in Elista and a statue for the Buddhist Park
Elista: A high-level delegation from the Republic of Kalmykia, led by Batu Khasikov, Head of the Republic of Kalmykia, has arrived in India on an official visit to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between Russia and India. The visit highlights shared values, cultural bonds and a common vision for global peace and security.
In New Delhi, Mr Khasikov held discussions with Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism and Culture, Government of India, focusing on strengthening cultural and spiritual cooperation. Both leaders agreed that during the Tulip Festival in April 2026, India Days will be celebrated in Kalmykia, showcasing Indian culture, traditions and tourism.
On this occasion, Mr Khasikov also extended an invitation to Mr Shekhawat to participate in the 3rd International Buddhist Forum in Elista in September 2025.
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.
India will also present a consecrated statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, which will take its place of honour 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 emphasised that the relationship is truly “heart-to-heart,” recalling how Russia has always stood by India during its most difficult times.
The visit also comes 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 centre 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 honour. The initiative aims to promote deeper awareness of Indian culture among Russians, while also fostering educational and cultural tourism between the two nations.
The Republic of Kalmykia is a federal subject of Russia located in the Caspian region. Known as the only Buddhist-majority region in Europe, Kalmykia is a convergence of spirituality, culture and investment opportunities. Its global brand, “Kalmykia: A Place of Power,” reflects the republic’s vision to emerge as a leading hub for international cooperation.
