SOURCE: AFI
Indian officials recently offered sweets to Philippines Marine Corps officers during the delivery of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system. This gesture, beyond mere hospitality, reflects a time-honored Indian tradition.
India has completed its first major defense equipment export with the delivery of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines. This USD 375 million deal strengthens the strategic partnership between the two nations.
The offering of sweets during such occasions signifies a warm welcome and a positive beginning. This tradition, known as “Mithaa” or “Prasadam,” is deeply rooted in Indian culture. Sweets symbolize auspiciousness, sweetness in the relationship, and a gesture of goodwill. It’s a way of saying “let the collaboration be fruitful and successful.”
Mithaa goes beyond a mere business transaction. It signifies the cultural exchange and the building of trust between India and the Philippines. Offering sweets is a tradition practiced across many cultures, signifying a pleasant exchange. In India, the specific sweets offered can vary depending on the region and occasion.
This BrahMos delivery marks a significant milestone for India’s defense export ambitions. The sweet gesture reflects not just the business deal but the hope for a strong and lasting partnership with the Philippines.