Vladimir Putin’s interview on India Today is the biggest news of the moment: Aroon Purie

Russian President Vladimir Putin gave his first interview to an Indian TV channel in nearly two decades. The interview, with India Today and Aaj Tak, was recorded in Moscow's historic Ekaterina Hall, where Putin holds meetings of his National Council and honors public figures.

Anjana Om Kashyap and Geeta Mohan, journalists with the India Today Group, spoke with Putin. According to the two journalists, it was a "global-level interview" that revealed Putin's views on not only India-Russia relations but also the world and global issues.

During the interview, Putin spoke candidly about his 25-year reign, the changing landscape of Russia and the world, Ukraine, and other international issues. Putin answered every question clearly and directly. Journalists noted that Putin, often portrayed in Western media as a serious or stern leader, appeared friendly, humble, and full of humor in the interview.

The India Today team was honored to be selected by the Russian press. Putin also interacted openly with the team in an informal conversation after the interview, which included India Today Group Chairman and Editor-in-Chief Aroon Purie and India Today Group Executive Editor-in-Chief Kali Purie. The interview lasted approximately 100 minutes, compared to the scheduled time of only 60 minutes. Putin displayed a very cooperative attitude, answering all the difficult questions.

The team explained that a lot of effort went into recording the interview. Every frame and every angle was carefully considered so that viewers could experience the same experience as the team. Putin was impressed by the professionalism and praised the India Today team.

Anjana Om Kashyap said that there are only a few leaders around the world who change the fate of countries on a global scale, and one of them, Putin, was present on Aaj Tak. Geeta Mohan described this moment as extremely rare and said that it is an honor for India that the India Today Group has reached this level.

In a team discussion after the interview, Kali Purie explained that this was the first time two female anchors had interviewed President Putin. She added that the conversation wasn't limited to India-Russia relations, but also touched on a wide range of global issues. This was a major step for Indian media, as we are now establishing a stronger presence on the global stage.

Arun Puri said – this is a historic opportunity for the Indian media.

When Anjana asked Arun Puri about the significance of the interview, he said it was a very important occasion for the Indian Media Group. He was proud of the entire team. He added that Putin is often portrayed as a "villain" in the world, but in the interview, he appeared very balanced, clear, and willing to answer any question.

He said that when asked off camera if he had any regrets about his 25-year leadership journey, Putin clearly said, “I never look back.”

During the conversation, Kali Puri said that Putin's friendly and gentle nature was unexpected for many. He seemed to be serious about even issues like the environment and answered every difficult question with an open mind.

Only India Today selected among Indian channels

Kali proudly explained that the Russian press team chose India Today among all the Indian channels because they knew the level of quality the group delivers in major interviews. The interview was scheduled for 60 minutes, but Putin enjoyed the conversation so much that it lasted nearly 100 minutes. They continued their informal conversation afterward.

The team's hard work impressed even the Russian press.

President Putin's team said they had never seen such a well-organized and meticulous team. They were impressed by every aspect, from the framing to the setup. They added that this was the first time they had been allowed to conduct an interview in front of the statue in this hall.

Geeta Mohan explained that while the team is usually simply given a location, this time the Bharat Today Group's preparation and presentation received special praise. Anjana added that the entire team crafts each frame in such a way that viewers watching the interview on TV experience the same experience the team had.

“India Today has a different style”

Kali Puri said, "Just give India Today a little space, and the team works hard to make it perfect." Even the security guards joked, "Two ladies... sorry!" because Putin seemed so impressed with you both. He was constantly smiling and incredibly comfortable. He answered even the toughest questions with ease.

Historic interview in Moscow's winter wonderland

Kali Puri said that being in Moscow felt like a dream. At this time of year, the city truly resembles a winter wonderland— lights, Christmas trees, decorations, a festive atmosphere.  And you keep asking yourself, is all this real or some magical world?

Aroon Purie gave the interview a '10 out of 10'

Arun Puri said that this interview is the biggest news of the moment. Important discussions are underway on Ukraine, and this interview is a major achievement for the Indian media at this time.

He said, “When India Today Network decides to follow a story, it completely owns it.”