Bhutan King, PM Relish Surti Undhiyu and Khaman Dhokla

Gandhinagar : In a display of culinary diplomacy, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel hosted a lavish dinner in honour of Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay at The Leela Hotel, Gandhinagar. The distinguished guests, currently on a three-day visit to Gujarat, indulged in an array of traditional Gujarati dishes, including Surti Undhiyu, Khaman Dhokla, and the sweet delight Mohanthal.

The Bhutanese delegation arrived in Ahmedabad after a visit to the iconic Statue of Unity at Ektanagar. They were warmly welcomed at Ahmedabad Airport by Chief Minister Patel, who greeted them with the vibrant beats of Garba and Dhol, setting a festive tone for their stay.

The meticulously planned dinner featured a variety of Gujarati specialties and continental dishes, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region. The guests were first treated to welcome drinks of watermelon and orange juice, followed by an assortment of soups and appetizers. These included tandoori rumani paneer, sabz aur mawa ki galouti, and Mexican jalapeno and pepper roulade.

As the evening progressed, the main course delighted the guests with dishes like Paneer Tomato Ka Koot, Surti Undhiyu, Vegetable Lasagna, Dry Nuts and Spiced Red Rice Pilaf, Steam Jeera Rice, Dal Makhni, and an assortment of Indian breads including Thepla and Paratha. The meal was rounded off with a selection of sweets, including Mohanthal, Angoor Basundi, and Caramel Chocolate Cake, which are cherished by Gujaratis.

Amidst the sumptuous spread, the dinner provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue. Chief Minister Patel and King Wangchuck engaged in discussions focused on strengthening commercial and cultural ties between Gujarat and Bhutan. The convivial atmosphere fostered a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect.

In attendance were Minister of State for Protocol Jagadish Vishwakarma, Chief Secretary Raj Kumar, and other senior officials, reflecting the significance of the visit. As a token of appreciation and to commemorate their visit, Chief Minister Patel presented the King of Bhutan with a replica of Kutch’s renowned traditional Rogan Art and a Bhujodi Shawl, symbolising the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat.