French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a cup of masala tea during a roadshow in Jaipur on January 25, 2024. The leaders visited the city as part of their official visit to India, with Macron serving as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi on January 26.
Roadshow in Jaipur
The roadshow in Jaipur was a significant event, with the leaders visiting various iconic sites in the city. They began their journey from Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and ended at Hawa Mahal. During the roadshow, they interacted with students, local artists, and the public.
Masala Tea at Sahu Chaiwala
One of the notable stops during the roadshow was at Sahu Chaiwala, a popular tea shop in Jaipur. The shop owner, who runs the Sahu teashop, had set up a temporary stall for the occasion at the world-famous Hawa Mahal. The leaders graciously accepted a token payment of ₹2 for the masala tea served to them. French President Macron used UPI for the payment transaction, demonstrating the simplicity and swiftness of India’s digital payment system.
Also Read This: Roadshow, Cultural Spectacle, Boost to Ties: Modi, Macron Bonhomie in Jaipur.
Amber Fort and Rambagh Palace
Before the roadshow, Macron visited the iconic Amber Fort, where he was welcomed by Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra and Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. Later in the day, the leaders held official talks at Rambagh Palace hotel.
Significance of the Visit
The visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India and his participation in the Republic Day celebrations is a significant event in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. The roadshow in Jaipur and the shared cup of masala tea symbolize the warmth and camaraderie between the leaders of the two nations.