Modi's gifts for World leaders reflects India's Art and Heritage(Indian History, Art and Culture)
Modi's gifts for World leaders reflects India's Art and Heritage(Indian History, Art and Culture)
Context:
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s five-nation diplomatic tour covering the United Arab Emirates, Sweden, Norway, Netherlands and Italy, India presented a range of traditional handicrafts and cultural artefacts to world leaders.
Gifts Presented During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Diplomatic Tour
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni received a Muga silk stole from Assam and a Shirui Lily silk stole from Manipur.
Queen Máxima Zorreguieta Cerruti received Meenakari and Kundan earrings from Rajasthan.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre received pressed orchid paintings and orchid paperweights from Sikkim.
Norwegian King Harald V received a Tarakasi silver filigree sailboat model from Odisha.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson received a Santiniketan messenger bag and works of Rabindranath Tagore from West Bengal.
UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received a Rogan painting and Kesar mangoes from Gujarat.
Brief About the Gifts
Muga Silk
Muga silk is a rare “golden silk” produced in Assam from the Antheraea assamensis silkworm.
It is known for its natural golden sheen, durability and production without artificial dyes.
Muga silk represents Assam’s traditional weaving heritage and has received the GI tag.
Shirui Lily Silk Stole
The Shirui Lily stole is inspired by the rare Shirui Lily flower found only in Manipur.
The flower symbolises purity and elegance and holds ecological and cultural significance.
The stole reflects Manipur’s traditional weaving craftsmanship.
Meenakari and Kundan Jewellery
Meenakari is the art of enamelling designs on metal surfaces using vibrant colours.
Kundan jewellery involves setting uncut gemstones in refined gold foil.
Both art forms flourished under Mughal patronage and are closely associated with Rajasthan.
Santiniketan Leather Craft
Santiniketan leather craft from West Bengal is known for embossed and hand-painted leather products.
The craft developed under the cultural influence of Rabindranath Tagore and Visva-Bharati traditions.
Rogan Painting
Rogan art is a rare textile painting tradition from the Kutch region of Gujarat.
The “Tree of Life” motif symbolises interconnectedness, growth and continuity.
Rogan art is practised by only a few artisan families and is part of India’s intangible cultural heritage.