PM Modi presents thoughtful gifts to leaders during his 2-nation visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a two-nation visit to France and the US, presented thoughtful gifts to the leaders.
During his time in France, he presented carefully selected gifts to French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron, reflecting India's rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
To President Macron, Modi gifted a finely crafted Dokra artwork depicting traditional musicians. This artwork, made using the ancient lost-wax metal-casting technique, is an example of Dokra art from Chhattisgarh. The piece, made of brass and copper, showcases intricate detailing and features musicians in dynamic poses. The artwork is further enhanced with decorative lapis lazuli and coral, providing contrast and vibrancy. The skilful casting process reflects the labour-intensive craftsmanship, while the piece embodies India's tribal heritage and the cultural significance of music. The Dokra art form is renowned for its intricate metalwork, which is passed down through generations of artisans, making this gift a celebration of India’s artistic legacy.
To First Lady Brigitte Macron, PM Modi presented an exquisite silver hand-engraved table mirror from Rajasthan. The mirror is framed with intricate floral and peacock motifs, which are deeply symbolic of beauty, grace and nature. The delicate engraving on the silver frame showcases the fine metalwork craftsmanship that Rajasthan is known for. The mirror's high-polish shine reflects the region’s rich tradition in crafting fine silverware. The piece not only serves as a functional object but also acts as a decorative heirloom that embodies timeless elegance and reflects India’s deep-rooted artistic traditions.
Upon reaching the United States, PM Modi continued his tradition of presenting meaningful gifts to the family of Vice President JD Vance.
To Vivek Vance, the son of Vice President JD Vance, Modi gifted a wooden railway toy set. The toy set is made from natural wood and is painted with eco-friendly vegetable dyes derived from plants, roots and flowers. The dyes used include yellow from turmeric, red from beetroot, blue from indigo, and green from spinach or neem, creating a soft, earthy colour palette. The set is a sustainable alternative to plastic toys, ensuring child safety and environmental consciousness. The wooden toy reflects India’s rich tradition of handcrafted toys, designed not just for play but also for educational value, fostering creativity and fine motor skills in children.
To Ewan Blaine Vance, the younger son of the Vice President, Modi presented a jigsaw puzzle based on India’s diverse folk painting styles. The puzzle features representations of Kalighat Pat Painting from West Bengal, Santhal Painting from the Santhal tribe, and Madhubani Painting from Bihar. Kalighat Pat is characterised by bold outlines and vibrant colours, often depicting gods, myths and social themes. Santhal Painting, with its earthy tones, illustrates tribal life, rituals and nature. Madhubani Painting is known for intricate patterns and bright, nature-inspired motifs. This puzzle not only serves as an engaging activity for children but also introduces them to India’s diverse artistic heritage, blending education with entertainment.
To Mirabel Rose Vance, the daughter of the Vice President, PM Modi gifted a wooden alphabet set. This eco-friendly learning tool is made from durable, child-safe wood and painted with natural, non-toxic dyes. The set is designed to help children develop motor skills and cognitive abilities as they engage with the alphabet. The use of sustainable materials makes it a safe and environmentally responsible alternative to plastic toys. The wooden alphabet set offers a hands-on learning experience, promoting language development while also encouraging a lifelong love for reading.
