While BRICS leaders lock themselves into two days of talks at Bharat Mandapam, their spouses may be getting a rather more scenic introduction to Delhi. A tentative cultural and sightseeing programme is reportedly being drawn up for spouses of visiting heads of state at the Summit, held in the capital on 12 and 13 September, giving them a taste of the city well beyond conference halls.
Where Are BRICS Leaders’ Spouses Headed In Delhi? Here’s The Tentative Itinerary
A Crafts-First Welcome At Bharat Mandapam
H.E. Louise Araneta-Marcos, spouse of the President of the Philippines, visited the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya in New Delhi. 🇵🇭🇮🇳
She explored the museum showcasing the journeys, contributions and legacies of India’s Prime Ministers.
#PradhanmantriSangrahalaya… pic.twitter.com/B8eWK3VgBN
— BRICS 2026 (@BricsIndia2026) September 12, 2026
Top of the list is the Crafts Bazaar at Bharat Mandapam itself, where artisans from BRICS member and partner nations, from Brazilian clay artists to Belarusian willow weavers, showcase traditional crafts alongside India’s own textile heritage. Spouses of some delegates were reportedly expected to visit before noon on the opening day. A stop at the National Crafts Museum near Pragati Maidan, known for its permanent exhibits on Indian art and textile traditions, is also part of the proposed programme.
From Chandni Chowk To Khan Market
Beyond the Bazaar, the tentative itinerary reportedly includes Chandni Chowk, Khan Market and Janpath, a spread taking in everything from Old Delhi’s centuries-old lanes and street food culture to the capital’s contemporary shopping districts. A lunch at The Lodhi hotel is also said to be on the cards, offering a curated, sit-down experience between sightseeing stops.
Also Read: BRICS Summit 2026: Taj Mahal New Delhi Welcomes Delegates With Indian Food And Cultural Experiences
Heritage Sites Still On The Cards
Officials have indicated that landmarks including Rajghat, Jama Masjid and the Red Fort could also feature, though inclusion isn’t confirmed. Separately, the ASI has placed monuments like Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and the Red Fort on standby with nodal officers deployed, in case of an unscheduled visit, though the official summit programme, which includes an India Innovation Exhibition, a tree-planting event and a formal dinner, doesn’t list monument visits.
For now, the full itinerary remains subject to change depending on time, security and last-minute VIP movement. But if even half the proposed stops make the cut, Delhi’s bazaars, bylanes and centuries-old monuments are set for a starry few days on the world stage.
Cover Image Courtesy: Narendra Modi/X
FAQs
What is the BRICS Summit 2026 spouses' programme?
A tentative cultural and sightseeing itinerary planned for spouses of visiting heads of state, separate from official summit proceedings.
Are Chandni Chowk and Khan Market part of the plan?
Yes, alongside Janpath, though the schedule remains tentative.
When is BRICS Summit 2026 being held?
On 12 and 13 September 2026, in New Delhi
