Prime Minister Narendra Modi showcased India’s rich cultural heritage by presenting handcrafted artifacts to visiting G20 Heads of State, leaders, and their spouses. These carefully curated items represent centuries of tradition and the country’s unique biodiversity.
One of the gifts was a Kashmiri Pashmina Stole presented to the spouse of Brazil’s President, Rosângela da Silva. This stole is a symbol of royalty, woven from the wool of specific Himalayan goats and meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans. It was presented in a delicate papier mache box, a renowned craft of Jammu and Kashmir.
To the spouse of Indonesia’s President, Iriana Joko Widodo, PM Modi gifted an Assam stole in a Kadam Wood Box. Assam stoles are known for their intricate designs inspired by the region’s natural surroundings, crafted from Muga silk.
Yuko Kishida, the spouse of Japan’s Prime Minister, received a Kanjivaram Stole. Kanjivaram silk creations are renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate designs, handcrafted from pure mulberry silk. It was presented in a Kadam wood Jali box.
Akshata Murty, the spouse of the UK’s Prime Minister, received an elegant Banarasi stole in a Kadam Wood Box. Banarasi silk stoles are known for their luxurious texture and are prized possessions in the wardrobe of many.
Kobita Ramdanee, the spouse of Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth, received an Ikkat Stole in a Teak Wood Box. This traditional mulberry silk stole features the exquisite Ikat technique and was presented in a Teak wood box.
Marcela Luchetti, the spouse of Argentina’s President, was gifted a Banarasi Silk Stole in an Ebony Jali Box.
The collection also included a Khadi scarf, Sheeshamwood Sandook with Brass Patti, Araku Coffee, Kashmir Saffron, and more. Khadi is an eco-friendly fabric with a rich history in India’s freedom struggle.
The Sheeshamwood Sandook with Brass Patti, or treasure chest, is a masterpiece of workmanship, handcrafted from Indian Rosewood.
Saffron from Kashmir, known for its culinary and medicinal value, was also part of the gift set.
Pekoe Darjeeling and Nilgiri Tea, Araku Coffee, and Sundarbans Multiflora Mangrove Honey showcased India’s diverse tea and coffee culture, as well as the biodiversity of the Sundarbans.
Additionally, PM Modi presented Kashmiri Pashmina shawls, known for their intricate craftsmanship and warmth.
The collection also included Ittar, an essential oil derived from botanical sources, showcasing India’s rich tradition of perfume crafting.
To commemorate India’s G20 Presidency, special G20 postage stamps and coins were released, featuring the theme of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or ‘One Earth. One Family. One Future’.
These artifacts and gifts reflect India’s cultural richness and craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into the country’s diverse heritage and traditions.
