Washington - What do you serve a man who isn't eating? Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi got warm water and an empty plate as guest of honour at a White House dinner and a State Department luncheon.
It may seem odd to honour a man observing a nine-day religious fast with official meals.
But diplomatic officials say it's perfectly appropriate, so long as the visiting leader is pleased to sit and sip water while others dine.
The chief of staff to first lady Laura Bush, Anita McBride, says many world leaders covet the chance to say back home that they were invited to a meal at the White House.
A spokesperson for Modi's government says the prime minister doesn't consider it a problem to attend dinners while fasting.