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Key Points

PM Modi gifted a traditional Odisha Pattachitra painting to Croatian President Zoran Milanovic during his diplomatic visit. The artwork, depicting Lord Krishna's life, highlights Odisha's rich cultural heritage. CM Mohan Majhi thanked Modi for elevating Odia identity on the global stage. The exchange strengthens cultural ties between India and Croatia while honoring ancient artistic traditions.

Key Points: PM Modi Gifts Odisha Pattachitra to Croatia President Milanovic

  • Modi gifts traditional Pattachitra painting to Croatia's President
  • Art depicts Lord Krishna's life in Odisha's signature style
  • Majhi praises global recognition of Odia heritage
  • Painting symbolizes India-Croatia cultural diplomacy
3 min read

PM Modi's gift of Pattachitra to Croatian President showcases Jagannath culture and Odia Asmita: Odisha CM

Odisha CM Majhi thanks PM Modi for showcasing Jagannath culture globally through Pattachitra gift to Croatian President Zoran Milanovic.

"This gesture reaffirms our pride in Odia Asmita and brings Jagannath tradition to the world stage – CM Mohan Charan Majhi"

Bhubaneswar, June 19

Describing it as a reaffirmation of "Odia Asmita", Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday extended heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting a traditional Pattachitra painting to Croatian President Zoran Milanovic, saying the gesture brought the timeless legacy of Jagannath culture to the global stage.

https://x.com/MohanMOdisha/status/1935596506746413356

In a post on X, CM Majhi wrote, "Extend heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for presenting a traditional Pattachitra painting to H.E. Zoran Milanovic, President of Croatia. Time and again, Prime Minister Modi ji has brought global recognition to Odisha's rich cultural and spiritual heritage."

"This gesture further reaffirms our pride in Odia Asmita and brings the timeless legacy of the Jagannath tradition to the forefront on the world stage. Such international appreciation is a profound inspiration for our artisan communities and strengthens Odisha's cultural identity globally," the post added.

The Pattachitra painting, gifted to Croatia's President, is a beautiful traditional art form from Odisha, known for its detailed and colourful paintings on cloth. The name of the painting comes from "patta" (cloth) and "chitra" (picture). These artworks usually show stories from Indian mythology, particularly about Lord Krishna and the Jagannath tradition. Artists use natural colours and handmade brushes to create bold lines and detailed scenes.

The art has been practised for centuries, mainly in Raghurajpur village and is passed down through generations. The art is not just decorative, but it holds deep spiritual meaning and was originally used in temples to help people understand religious stories.

This particular Pattachitra painting shows several episodes from Lord Krishna's life, like his playful childhood, dancing with the gopis (Ras Leela), and lifting the Govardhan Hill. Each part is carefully painted with natural colours and surrounded by floral borders, which is a signature of this style. The painting reflects a long-standing tradition of devotion, skill, and storytelling.

PM Modi met with Croatia's President Zoran Milanovic on Wednesday (local time) and discussed the full range of India-Croatia friendship.

PM Modi was on a three-nation visit. His first stop was Cyprus, followed by Canada, where he attended the G7 Summit, and then Croatia, making it the first visit by an Indian PM to the European Nation.

During his visit, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by the people and the Government of Croatia. He expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome. He highlighted the visit's significance in ushering in a new chapter in the shared journey of friendship and extensive cooperation between India and Croatia.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
What a beautiful way to showcase our Odia culture! 🇮🇳 The Pattachitra art is so intricate and meaningful. More such traditional art forms should be promoted globally. Kudos to PM Modi for this thoughtful gesture. Jai Jagannath!
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Rahul S.
While I appreciate promoting Indian art, I wish our government would also focus on improving infrastructure for these traditional artists. Many Pattachitra painters in Raghurajpur struggle to make ends meet despite their incredible talent.
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Ananya M.
As someone from Odisha, this makes me so proud! Our Pattachitra art deserves this international recognition. The detailing in these paintings is mind-blowing - each stroke tells a story. Hope this brings more tourists to Raghurajpur village too.
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Suresh P.
Good diplomatic move. Cultural exchanges like this help strengthen ties with European nations. Croatia may be small but has strategic importance. More such soft power initiatives needed!
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Meena R.
The Ras Leela scene in Pattachitra paintings is my favorite! Such vibrant colors and fluid movements captured on cloth. This gift will make Croatians curious about our rich mythology. Well done!
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Vikram J.
Hope this isn't just symbolic. Would like to see concrete steps to preserve and promote all our traditional art forms. Many are dying due to lack of patronage. Still, a nice gesture that puts Odisha on world map. 🙏

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