The combined populations of the BRIC countries—Brazil, Russia, India, and China—account for 41–42% of the world’s total population. With South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, the UAE, and Indonesia joining, the group now represents 49.5% of the global population. Originally conceived by an economist at a New York investment bank rather than by political leaders, the member states remain economically aligned rather than fully “united.”
China dominates the group and aims to surpass the US economy. Despite border conflicts, India imports heavily from China, ranging from everyday consumer goods and religious idols to components used in the Statue of Unity. India hosted the 2026 BRICS Summit, while China will host the summit in 2027.
Indian culture places great emphasis on hospitality—Atithi Devo Bhava—and on ensuring that children are given food before adults. Against this cultural backdrop, the BRICS summit banquet featured an array of high-end culinary dishes.
Starters: Khandvi Mille-Feuille, consisting of steamed gram-flour layers with Alphonso mango and yogurt dressing, and Khumb Galouti, mushroom kebabs served with Sheermal roti.
Main Course: Paneer Lababdar, Gucchi Marmik—Himalayan Gucchi mushrooms prepared with saffron, raisins, and Mamra almonds—Carrot Bean Poriyal, Thakkali Bele Saaru (lentil soup), Millet Pulao, Beetroot Raita, and assorted breads.
Desserts: Jalebi with Old Delhi Fruit Cream and Shahtoot Phirni, topped with mulberries and gold leaf.
The market prices of some of the key ingredients are steep. Gucchi mushrooms cost ₹25,000–₹40,000 per kilogram, while Mamra almonds cost ₹3,500–₹6,500 per kilogram. The total cost of the event has not been disclosed.
For comparison, the daily allocation for primary-school mid-day meals per child is reportedly:
India: ₹6.78
China: ₹71.45
Russia: ₹126–₹137
Brazil: ₹10.62
The BJP has asked citizens to light oil lamps for the Prime Minister’s birthday. However, with palm oil costing around ₹130 per kilogram and rationed supplies limited to 1 kg per family during festivals, such a request can place an additional burden on poor families.
Instead of asking the public to light lamps, the BJP should use its own funds to serve a ₹5,000-per-plate BRICS-style meal to Gujarat’s schoolchildren and child labourers. If a full meal is considered too expensive, they should at least feed Gujarat children Gucchi.
---
*Founder, Dalit Shakti Kendra and Navsarjan Trust, Ahmedabad
Comments