What Russians say about India – Firstpost

India, a country that instantly captivates travelers with its vibrant culture and bursts of color the moment they arrive, is among the most sought-after destinations for tourism around the world. While for many, the visit ends with lasting memories, for others, it marks the beginning of a new life in a place they choose to call home.

As Russian President Vladimir Putin visits India, Firstpost spoke to some Russian travelers and expats who opened up about their deep admiration for India – its culture, traditions, everyday rhythms, and all the little surprises that make the country so unique. From the warmth of its people to the fun and frolic festivals that transform cities into living mosaics, these Russians reveal the aspects of India that have surprised, inspired, and even transformed them. Their experiences offer a glimpse into what it really feels like to witness India beyond the typical tourist lens.

1. “I feel at home here” says Maria Dovolnova

Maria Dovolnova from Sheregesh, Russia has visited India multiple times, with the most recent trip being November 2025. Sharing with Firstpost, Dovolnova says that the longest she has ever stayed in India was “about a month and a half, maybe two”.

“Anything shorter simply doesn’t work here. India doesn’t accept quick visits. You arrive thinking, okay, 10 days will be enough, and then the space starts moving you around like a chess piece. You realize that planning here is impossible. It’s as if Mother India herself leads you exactly where you need to be. Logic doesn’t apply – only trust,” she adds.

The 27-year-old opens up about a quirky habit Europeans have: “In Europe, we have this funny habit of counting how many ‘Indias’ you’ve done – meaning how many times you’ve been here. Probably because every visit feels like a whole separate lifetime. Each time brings new lessons, new meanings, new transformations that touch you deeply. Some people arrive burned out, some lost, some closed off. And this country unfolds each person in its own way – so they can take with them exactly what their soul has been missing. Honestly, sometimes I want to say: India loves me! It sounds silly, but it’s true. I feel at home here.”

Dovolnova admires the amount of open-hearted, kind, genuinely positive people she encountered during her visit. “When I return home, I keep smiling for two more months, and people look at me like something is wrong. We’re not used to being grateful for what we already have. Here, even children who might not have 10 toys know how to be joyful,” she says.

While several foreigners may grumble about dirt and cleanliness, Dovolnova has learned to see India through a lens of wonder, not judgment. “If I could give one message to anyone visiting India for the first time, it would be this: don’t come as tourists. Come as pilgrims. If you’re here only for architecture or comfort, you’ll miss the essence. Expecting cleanliness and convenience makes it easy to overlook how the country actually speaks – through its people, its sacred places, its unexpected encounters.”

2. “India is not a place you simply see. It’s a place you feel” says Vera Nikolaeva

“I’ve been in India for about a year but felt as several incarnations – long enough to feel that this country doesn’t just welcome you, it changes you,” says 31-year-old Vera Nikolaeva from Saint Petersburg, Russia.

She further adds that every day in India is “a small adventure, both outer and inner.“

“What I love the most is the heart energy of this land. People who smile at you before they even know your name. Temples where time slows down. The colors, the spices, the morning mantras, the sunsets, the lively markets – everything gently opens your heart wider. India teaches you to surrender and to trust the path, even when you have no idea where it is leading you,” she shares with Firstpost.

The woman urges foreign travelers to come here with openness. “India reflects everything inside you – both your light and your shadow. Don’t try to control the journey. Let the country surprise you, hold you, guide you. And remember: India is not a place you simply “see.” It’s a place you feel,” she concludes.