New Delhi is preparing a carefully planned cultural programme for the spouses and family members accompanying BRICS leaders, combining India’s political heritage, traditional crafts, modern art and hospitality. The BRICS Delhi cultural tour will run alongside summit-related engagements as India hosts the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, 2026.
The programme is expected to take visiting family members beyond the formal diplomatic setting and introduce them to some of the capital’s important museums and cultural institutions. Officials involved in the arrangements have planned visits to the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy, National Gallery of Modern Art and Central Cottage Industries Emporium.
Delhi Heritage and Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya
The Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya is expected to be one of the key stops during the cultural programme. Museum representatives will guide guests through exhibits tracing India’s political development and highlighting the lives, leadership and contributions of the country’s prime ministers.
The visit is intended to offer international guests a wider understanding of India’s democratic journey while adding a historical dimension to their stay in New Delhi.
BRICS Bazaar Highlights Traditional Crafts
The National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy will introduce visitors to India’s diverse handicraft traditions. A special BRICS Bazaar is also planned, bringing together crafts and cultural products connected with participating countries.
The initiative will provide a platform for traditional craftsmanship while highlighting the cultural diversity represented within the expanded BRICS grouping. India’s textiles, handmade products and artisan traditions are expected to be an important part of the experience.
NGMA Visit Showcases Indian Art
The itinerary also includes a planned lunch at Indian Accent at The Lodhi before the delegation visits Jaipur House, home to the National Gallery of Modern Art.
At the NGMA, guests will have an opportunity to explore India’s modern and contemporary artistic traditions. The gallery visit complements the traditional craft programme by showing how Indian visual culture has evolved across different periods and artistic movements.
Cottage Emporium Features Indian Handicrafts
The Central Cottage Industries Emporium at Jawahar Vyapar Bhawan is another expected stop. The emporium presents handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, decorative products and traditional creations from different regions of India.
Access for regular visitors may be temporarily restricted during the VIP programme. The visit is expected to take place in the afternoon, although officials have kept parts of the schedule flexible depending on weather, security and delegation movements.
Security Strengthened for Cultural Programme
Delhi authorities have increased security along designated routes and around locations included in the programme. Police personnel, quick reaction teams and emergency medical support are expected to remain positioned at important points during the movement of visiting dignitaries.
Beyond its ceremonial value, the programme represents an exercise in cultural diplomacy. By combining political history, museums, Indian art, handicrafts and hospitality, India is using the BRICS summit to present its cultural identity while encouraging stronger people-to-people connections among participating nations.
