NEW YORK: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s five-day US visit during his ‘Navratri’ fasting period has created a challenge for President Obama’s White House kitchen as Mr Obama plans to host a small dinner for him, local Indian media reported.

According to Indian media, because Mr Modi adheres strictly to a liquid diet during the period of Navratri, he will consume lemonade with some honey and a cup of tea every day. White House will be creative in preparing his menu for the Sep 29 dinner.

A local Indian newspaper, India Abroad, quoted a White House spokesperson Caitlin Hayden as saying, “We are aware of the prime minister’s plans to fast during his visit to Washington. As with all guests hosted by US Presidents over the years, we always work to respectfully accommodate the practices of our visitors”.

“The president looks forward to a successful bilateral visit with the prime minister, and we do not anticipate this (fast) being an issue in any way,” the spokesman said.

However, the White House Historical Association, believes that the details of the dinner have already been worked out, which would be respectful of the religious practices and beliefs of the visiting leader.

Modi will come to New York on Sep 27 to address the United Nations General Assembly. He will remain in the city till Sep 29 when he will travel to Washington.

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2014