A photograph from the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping has gone viral for an unexpected reason. While the three leaders were at the centre of the frame, seen sharing a hearty moment, social media users soon began focusing on the Indian official standing just behind them.
The man is an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, Sidharth Babu. He became the subject of online curiosity and also mockery, after the photo gained traction. Some commented on his appearance, hair and clothing, with people even suggesting that he should be replaced. However, behind the viral photograph is a diplomat whose role is far more significant than his appearance.
Who Is Sidharth Babu?
Sidharth Babu is a 2017-batch IFS officer, who is originally from Kochi, Kerala. He secured an All India Rank of 15 in the 2016 UPSC Civil Services Examination. He cleared the exam in his second attempt. Despite the high rank and the opportunity to pursue the IAS, Babu opted for the Indian Foreign Service because of his interest in international relations and diplomacy.
Babu has a degree in engineering from Mar Athanasius College of Engineering and has previously worked in the private sector, including the e-commerce industry before he completely switched his field to prepare for the civil services.
Why Was He Standing Next To Narendra Modi, Vladimir Putin And Xi Jinping?
Babu’s presence beside the three world leaders was linked to his work as a diplomatic interpreter. The 36-year-old diplomat, who is currently the Deputy Secretary in the East Asia Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, was serving as the Prime Minister’s interpreter.
BRICS Summit 2026 gets underway in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/WN7YWi5bTg
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 12, 2026
His experience also includes a posting in Beijing, where he served for several years and developed expertise in China-related affairs and Mandarin. He also reportedly pursued advanced training in translation and interpretation in the United States. The BRICS Summit was not the first time Babu has been spotted alongside the Prime Minister during a major diplomatic event. He was previously seen assisting during India’s Republic Day celebrations, when foreign dignitaries were present.
