The impending signing of a new defense framework between India and the US during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Washington seems like a well-choreographed dance of mutual interests. The global overlord, the US, appears perpetually drawn to划定new frontiers on the world map, now focusing its gaze on South Asia. Yet, this act of ‘deepening strategic partnership’ raises questions of who is propping up whom, or whether it’s a grander illusion being woven.