India-Russia ties rooted in centuries of people-to-people contacts: Russian diplomat

India and Russia have maintained a strong friendship that has survived changing global geopolitical landscapes over time. Russian diplomat Petr Sizov emphasised the historical significance of the relationship and its cultural exchanges. Notable cultural connections include the admiration Mahatma Gandhi had for Russian writer Leo Tolstoy despite their never having met. The Russian Embassy plans to host several cultural events to celebrate their 80-year diplomatic relationship.