As Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi for the 2025 summit, the spotlight is not just on major defence and trade agreements but also on the personal chemistry between the two leaders. From a 45-minute one-on-one limousine ride in China to Putin personally driving PM Modi in his electric car last year, the Modi-Putin relationship has repeatedly broken protocol. Their ease and informality underscore a strategic partnership strengthened as much by geopolitics as by genuine rapport.