Varanasi, Dec. 4 -- Evening prayers were held on Thursday during the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi to welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin, with 'Welcome Putin' spelt out in diyas.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India on Thursday for a 2-day state visit.

He will hold the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on December 5.

In a rare diplomatic gesture that underscores the strong ties between India and Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Russian President Vladimir Putin at Delhi Airport today, breaking with standard protocol.

This gesture highlights the strategic partnership and close relationship between the two leaders.

Last time they met, the bonhomie between Prime Minister ...