South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile dives into Delhi’s colorful Dilli Haat

When Deputy President Paul Mashatile arrived in New Delhi last week, the itinerary was anything but dull. Instead of the usual ribbon‑cutting ceremonies, he was ushered straight to Dilli Haat – a bustling open‑air market that proudly showcases the best of Indian art, handicraft and street food.

Walking through the maze of colourful stalls, Mashatile paused at a vendor selling traditional Rajasthani block‑printed fabrics. "These patterns tell stories," he remarked, a hint of awe in his voice. The deputy president even tried his hand at a simple weaving technique – you could see a smile break across his face as the shuttle clicked into place.

Of course, no visit to Dilli Haat would be complete without sampling the cuisine. From steaming plates of chaats to the aromatic kiss of masala‑laden biryani, Mashatile sampled it all, occasionally wiping his hands on a napkin and laughing, "I think my taste buds are doing a little dance right now!"

Beyond the sensory delights, the trip had a diplomatic undercurrent. The South African delegation, accompanied by Indian officials, used the informal setting to discuss deeper cultural cooperation, trade opportunities and youth exchange programmes. "It’s one thing to talk about partnership in conference rooms; it’s another to share a cup of chai and a conversation about heritage," Mashatile noted during a brief interview.

Local artisans, too, felt the impact. Several shop owners expressed gratitude, saying the deputy president’s presence shone a spotlight on their work and, in turn, on the broader narrative of Africa‑Asia friendship. One potter, beaming, said, "When a world leader walks through my stall, it feels like my craft is being celebrated on a global stage."

By the end of the day, Mashatile left Dilli Haat with a few hand‑woven souvenirs tucked under his arm and a promise to return – not just as a guest, but as a partner eager to explore further cultural bridges. As he boarded his flight back to Pretoria, he summed it up simply: "India’s richness is undeniable, and I’m excited about what lies ahead for our two great nations."