Putin the 'embodiment of heroism'
Supporters also rolled out a new exhibition of flattering paintings, depicting Mr Putin in various heroic guises, including the black-clad Matrix protagonist Neo, the Buddha in lotus position, Che Guevara in his black beret and Mahatma Gandhi.
The "Putin Universe" exhibition also shows him as artist Salvador Dali, space pioneer Yury Gagarin, sleuth Sherlock Holmes, French leader Charles de Gaulle, comic book superheroes Batman and Hulk - and even French saint Joan of Arc.
"Vladimir Putin's character is the embodiment of heroism, fairness, slyness, intellect, courage and charm," the exhibition organisers said in a statement.
Milos Kojic, a Serbian political expert who helped put together the display in central Moscow, told AFP: "We just want to thank him for the job he is doing for the whole planet."