New Delhi: The national capital is preparing to host the 2026 BRICS Summit, with world leaders arriving in Delhi for discussions on major geopolitical, economic and technological challenges. Among the prominent leaders expected at the summit are Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
At the centre of the high profile gathering will be Bharat Mandapam, the modern convention and exhibition complex located within the Pragati Maidan redevelopment area. Spread across 123 acres and built at a reported cost of around ₹2,700 crore, the facility was inaugurated in 2023 and has emerged as one of India’s major venues for international events.
The name Bharat Mandapam draws inspiration from the 12th century Anubhava Mandapam, a historic forum associated with public discussion and dialogue. The complex also features a 27 foot tall Nataraja statue weighing 18 tonnes. Crafted by artisans from Tamil Nadu using ashtadhatu, the statue is among the venue’s most prominent landmarks.
The main convention centre draws inspiration from the shape of a conch shell, representing consciousness, energy and an auspicious beginning. Its architecture incorporates themes from Indian civilisation, including solar energy, the journey from zero to the Indian Space Research Organisation and the five elements of nature, known as panch mahabhuta.
Bharat Mandapam’s summit facilities are designed to accommodate large international delegations. Hall No. 1 has hosted the Bharat Innovates programme showcasing technologies ranging from drones to emerging technologies.
Hall No. 14 will host the BRICS Business Forum, bringing together industrialists, investors and corporate representatives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin are also scheduled to address the business community.
The International Media Centre in Hall No. 5 is expected to host around 1,200 to 1,400 journalists from across the world. It will serve as the main base for global media coverage of the summit.
The BRICS discussions are expected to cover the Russia Ukraine war, tensions in the Middle East, counter terrorism, artificial intelligence and trade relations among member countries. Bilateral trade and wider economic cooperation are also likely to feature prominently during the summit.
