Rain, risotto & sports diplomacy

When the city was swept up in a sudden dust storm, followed by a light drizzle, guests at the Italian Embassy took refuge inside the Ambassador’s residence during the event hosted in honour of Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani’s India visit.
Amid the clinking of wine glasses, the evening’s conversation centred not only around Caravaggio’s Magdalene In Ecstasy – displayed at the Italian Cultural Institute, but also the dust storm.
Once the skies cleared and the weather turned pleasant, the guests gradually moved to the gardens with lit-up olive trees, just as originally planned. “Buono!” “Delicious!” they exclaimed as chef Enrico Derflingher served up a sumptuous risotto made with special Italian rice, black truffle, Armenian saffron, and generous shavings of parmesan cheese.

"Buona Sera! The link between India and Italy is very strong, stronger than yesterday. We are ready for better cooperation in trade, sports and more," said Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.

The evening also saw special guests Bhaichung Bhutia and Italian footballer Marco Materazzi exchanging football passes near the stage, as collaboration between Indian and Italian football, and coaching fraternities was announced. Italian Ambassador Antonio Bartoli, remarked, "Football is a vehicle for friendship and inclusion. So, we have brought together the legend of Italian football, Marco Materazzi and the legend of Indian football Bhaichung Bhutia."
Italian footballer Marco Materazzi, said, “I hope to give the opportunity to kids to learn football, and I have immense belief in the potential of Indian kids."



The evening concluded with a captivating tableaux vivant performance by the Italian theatre group Teatri 35, inspired by the works of Italian artist Caravaggio.