The power of food diplomacy all over the world is undeniable and India has forever been a strong proponent of this. From praising the power of Indian food in Australia during his latest tour to feeding diplomatic guests the best the nation has to offer, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always promoted food diplomacy—and the results are quite visible through the recent tour of Varanasi conducted by Japan’s Ambassador, Hiroshi Suzuki.
While his tour of the ancient holy city included visits to prominent temples, ghats and places of cultural significance, Ambassador Suzuki also indulged in a feast of food while giving even Indian foodies crazy food goals! Referring to the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s visit to India in March 2023—where PM Modi treated his Japanese counterpart to the delight we all love, Golgappas—Ambassador Suzuki also took his chance to taste the much-loved Indian street food snack.
Tweeting a video with glimpses of his visit, Ambassador Suzuki wrote: “I really wanted to eat golgappe since I saw PM Modi @narendramodi and PM Kishida @kishida230 eating them together!” The short clip shows the diplomat excitedly breaking into a plate of a big Golgappa, taking a taste and then showing off a universal sign of appreciation. We could also spot a Kulhad loaded with spicy chickpeas on the side, proving that the ambassador didn’t just stop at Golgappe.
In another Tweet, Ambassador Suzuki also shared the fact that his hosts treated him to a lavish Thaali. “I also enjoyed a pure Banarasi Thali, after seeing mystic Night Aarti. I thank all of you for such a warm hospitality,” he wrote. This Thaali was pure vegetarian and included Benarasi classics like Aloo Matar Sabji with Poori, a Paneer Sabji, a Palak dish and what looks like some kind of Chaat. Moreover, rice, papad and a spread of chutneys and pickles are also visible in his post.
To wrap up his trip to Varanasi, Ambassador Suzuki indulged in a traditional Litti Chokha meal. The picture he posted clearly showcases Littis served with an array of Baingan Chokha, chutney, etc. On the edges of the frame, dal, dahi and other summer dishes from the region are also visible.
It clearly looks like Ambassador Suzuki got a great taste of food from Varanasi, which is always best enjoyed while soaking up the pure and spiritual ambiance of the city. We sincerely hope Ambassador Suzuki got to try the Kachoris and sweets Varanasi is famous for. If he didn’t, we hope he visits soon again and gives us food goals again!
