From Brass Tortoise to Maheshwari Silk: PM Modi's gifts to Seychelles leadership showcases India's cultural heritage
New Delhi, June 30
Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented specially curated gifts to Seychelles leaders during his three-day state visit to the archipelago nation, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage.
PM Modi gifted Muradabadi Brass Tortoise to Seychelles President Patrick Herminie.
The Muradabadi Brass Tortoise is a distinguished example of the renowned brassware tradition of Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, it showcases the region's exceptional expertise in metal casting, engraving and finishing. Its finely detailed shell and lustrous finish reflect generations of craftsmanship.
The tortoise is seen as a timeless symbol of wisdom, stability, resilience and longevity. These ideals resonate deeply with Seychelles, whose natural heritage is inseparable from the iconic Aldabra Giant Tortoise, one of the world's largest and longest-living tortoise species. The Muradabadi Brass Tortoise is a symbol of India's artisanal excellence and holds special significance for Seychelles, reflecting the enduring friendship between the two nations and celebrating the shared values of wisdom and harmony with nature.
PM Modi presented Bidriware Box and Maheshwari Silk Stole to Seychelles First Lady Veronique Herminie.
The Bidriware Box is an exquisite example of India's celebrated metalcraft tradition, renowned for its distinctive contrast of lustrous silver inlay against a deep black metallic surface. The box handcrafted by skilled artisans features intricate geometric and floral motifs meticulously inlaid with fine silver wire, showcasing remarkable precision and artistry.
Bidriware originated in Karnataka's Bidar, from which it derives its name. The craft involves casting an alloy of zinc and copper, engraving intricate patterns onto the surface, and inlaying them with silver. Then, the object is treated through a specialised oxidation process that produces the characteristic black finish while leaving the silver inlay bright and striking. This unique technique distinguishes Bidriware from other forms of metalwork.
The Maheshwari Silk Stole is a graceful expression of India's handloom heritage, known for its lightweight texture, elegant drape, and distinctive woven patterns. Originating from Madhya Pradesh's Maheshwar, this textile tradition is celebrated for its fine craftsmanship and harmonious blend of silk and cotton yarns. Characterised by geometric motifs, striped borders, and subtle colour combinations, Maheshwari weaves showcase a refined aesthetic that has been preserved for generations.
PM Modi presented Orchid Painting from Sikkim to Seychelles Vice President Sebastien Pillay and Kanchivaram Silk Fabric to Second First Lady Lina Pillay.
This exquisite Orchid Art Painting from Sikkim beautifully combines the state's rich floral heritage with its vibrant artistic traditions. The artwork showcases India's National Bird, the peacock, gracefully adorned with delicate orchid blooms amidst intricate floral vines, celebrating the harmony of nature and artistic expression.
The artwork has special significance through its connection with India and Seychelles. While the peacock symbolises India's natural and cultural heritage, the orchid is the National Flower of Seychelles, a nation renowned for its unique island biodiversity and commitment to environmental conservation. By bringing these iconic symbols together, the painting celebrates the shared commitment of India and Seychelles to preserving nature's rich diversity and fostering harmony between culture and the environment. The artwork is a graceful symbol of the enduring friendship between India and Seychelles.
Kanchivaram silk fabric is one of India's most celebrated handloom traditions, renowned for its luxurious texture, vibrant colours, and exceptional craftsmanship. Originating from Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, this exquisite textile is woven from fine mulberry silk and distinguished by its durability, lustrous finish, and intricate zari work.
PM Modi presented Toda Embroidered Shawl to Seychelles National Assembly Speaker Azarel Ernesta.
The Toda Embroidered Shawl is a distinguished textile tradition of the Toda community, an indigenous pastoral people of the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu. It is crafted on a white cotton base and adorned with striking red and black geometric embroidery. Each piece is hand-embroidered, demonstrating generations of inherited skill and artistic expression.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The thoughtfulness behind each gift is truly remarkable. From Bidriware of Karnataka to Kanchivaram silk of Tamil Nadu, Toda embroidery from Nilgiris to Maheshwari from MP - it's a mini India tour in gifts! Our PM knows how to use soft power effectively.
While I appreciate the cultural diplomacy, I hope these aren't just photo-ops. Would be great if there are concrete trade agreements and development partnerships behind the scenes. Still, the craftsmanship is undeniable - our artisans are world-class.
The orchid painting with peacock and orchid is pure genius! Since orchid is Seychelles' national flower and peacock is ours, it's a perfect symbol of friendship. This is how you do diplomacy - with heart and creativity. Well planned!
Excellent choice of gifts! Each one tells a story of Indian craftsmanship - from Moradabad's brass to Kanchipuram's silk. But I also hope we're investing in preserving these traditional arts at home, not just showcasing them abroad. Many artisans struggle for fair wages.
As someone from Karnataka, seeing Bidriware get international recognition makes me proud! This metalcraft from Bidar is centuries old and the techniques are passed down through families. Finally our traditional arts are getting the global stage they deserve. ❤️
M We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.