08.05.2026 17:06
Images of Indian President Droupadi Murmu bringing her hand to her saree after shaking hands with the Russian delegation at a ceremony where Vladimir Putin was present have become a topic of discussion on social media. While the images have sparked various interpretations in the foreign press, some users criticized the gesture, while others argued it was a natural reflex. No official statement has been made on the matter.
Images of Indian President Droupadi Murmu wiping her hand on her sari after shaking hands with the Russian delegation during an official ceremony attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin became a trend on social media. The quickly spreading images prompted various interpretations in foreign media and on social media platforms.
IMAGES WENT VIRAL ON SOCIAL MEDIA
At the ceremony, Murmu was seen bringing her right hand to her clothing several times after shaking hands with members of the Russian delegation. Some users suggested this gesture was an expression of discomfort, while other commentators argued that the images were misinterpreted.
In analyses by foreign media, it was noted that reflexively bringing hands to the sari is a common behavior in the use of traditional clothing in India. No official statement was issued by the Indian Presidency regarding the images.
PUTIN'S INDIA VISIT HAD BEEN ON THE AGENDA
During Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India, the strategic partnership, energy collaborations, and defense agreements between the two countries were discussed. The official welcoming ceremony and state dinner received extensive coverage in the international press.
SPARKED DEBATE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Following the images, social media users were divided. One side argued that the gesture was diplomatically striking, while the other side stated that the images were taken out of context and imbued with excessive meaning.