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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Vientiane, Laos, for the ASEAN Summit 2024 was not just a diplomatic affair but also an opportunity to showcase India's rich cultural heritage. The gifts presented by Modi to world leaders during his two-day visit stand as testaments to the long-standing ties between India and the ASEAN nations, highlighting the shared history and the vibrant artistic traditions that bind them together.
The carefully chosen gifts included a diverse range of artifacts reflecting various regions of India, each carrying a unique story of craftsmanship and cultural significance. For instance, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone received a Buddha head crafted from high-quality Kadamwood, a symbol of peace and spirituality that resonated with the Buddhist culture of Laos. His wife, Vandara Siphandone, was gifted a malachite and camel bone box adorned with a Radha-Krishna theme, representing the timeless love and devotion in Hindu mythology.
Moving beyond the borders of Laos, Modi extended his gesture of cultural exchange to other leaders. Lao President Naly Sisoulith received a Patan Patola scarf, a fine double ikat textile woven by the Salvi family in Patan, Gujarat. This scarf, a hallmark of India's age-old silk traditions, is renowned for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. The gift served as a reminder of the intricate craftsmanship and artistry that has flourished in India for centuries.
The Himalayan region of Ladakh was represented through a low-height wooden table presented to Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This table, adorned with vibrant and intricate carvings, embodies the cultural essence of Ladakh, reflecting the region's unique artistic heritage. Lastly, Japan's newly elected Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, received a silver peacock figurine featuring minute and intricate nakkashi (carvings) from West Bengal. This gift showcased the delicate and intricate artwork that West Bengal is known for, highlighting the diversity of Indian craftsmanship.
Each gift, selected with care and consideration, represents a significant symbol of India's deep cultural ties with the ASEAN nations. They celebrate centuries of artistic heritage, highlighting the shared cultural heritage that binds India and the ASEAN nations together. These gifts go beyond mere tokens of appreciation, serving as a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation that India seeks to foster with its regional partners.
Source: PM Modi’s gifts to world leaders: From Gujarat Patan Patola scarf to West Bengal ‘nakkashi’ carvings