PM Modi presents traditional Indian crafts as gifts to Seychelles leaders during state visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted traditional Indian handicrafts and textiles to the top leadership of Seychelles and their spouses during his three-day visit to the island nation from June 27 to 29. The visit included attending the golden jubilee celebrations of Seychelles' national day and bilateral discussions with President Patrick Herminie, aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries.
Mr. Modi presented President Herminie with a Muradabadi brass tortoise, a handcrafted piece from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, known for its intricate metal casting, engraving, and finishing. The gift highlighted the skill of local artisans and the region's brassware tradition.
The Prime Minister also visited the giant tortoise enclosure at the Seychelles National Botanical Garden.
To First Lady Veronique Herminie, Mr. Modi gave a Maheshwari silk stole and a Bidriware box. The stole, from Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh, is valued for its fine blend of silk and cotton. The Bidriware box, originating from Bidar, Karnataka, involves casting a zinc-copper alloy, engraving patterns, and inlaying them with silver.
Seychelles Vice President Sebastien Pillay received an orchid painting from Sikkim, depicting India's national bird, the peacock, amid orchid blooms and floral vines. The artwork symbolises both countries: the peacock representing India's heritage, and the orchid, Seychelles' national flower, reflecting its biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Second Lady Lina Pillay was gifted a Kanchivaram silk fabric from Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, known for its fine mulberry silk, durability, lustre, and intricate zari work.
Speaker of the Seychelles National Assembly Azarel Ernesta received a Toda embroidered shawl from the Toda community of the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu. The shawl features the traditional Pukhoor embroidery, executed entirely by hand.
The gifts showcase India's diverse craftsmanship and cultural heritage, serving as a gesture of goodwill and friendship during the Prime Minister's visit.
