Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented French President Emmanuel Macron with a special gift during his two-day trip to France – a sandalwood sitar. This remarkable replica of a musical instrument showcases the traditional art of sandalwood carving that has been a cherished practice in Southern India for countless generations. The decorative sitar features engravings of Goddess Saraswati, who holds the musical instrument known as the sitar (veena) and symbolizes knowledge, music, art, speech, wisdom, and learning. Additionally, the sitar bears an image of Lord Ganesha, the deity known for removing obstacles.
Here is the list of gifts presented by PM Modi to the hosts in France
1. Sandalwood Sitar for French President Emmanuel Macron
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France, he presented French President Emmanuel Macron with a one-of-a-kind gift: a sandalwood sitar replica. This exquisite musical instrument is meticulously crafted from pure sandalwood, showcasing the ancient art of sandalwood carving prevalent in Southern India for centuries.
The sitar replica is adorned with intricate carvings of Goddess Saraswati, symbolizing knowledge and music, and Lord Ganesha, representing wisdom and the remover of obstacles. Additionally, the piece is beautifully illustrated with peacocks, India’s national bird, and embellished with a plethora of motifs from Indian culture.
The gift not only highlights India’s rich artistic heritage but also serves as a symbol of cultural exchange and friendship between India and France.
2. Pochampally Ikat in Sandalwood Box for Brigitte Macron, President’s Spouse
PM Modi gifted a Pochampally silk ikat fabric, renowned for its vibrant colours and intricate designs. Originating from the town of Pochampally in Telangana, India, this fabric represents India’s rich textile heritage. It was elegantly presented in a decorative sandalwood box, showcasing the craftsmanship and aromatic qualities of sandalwood.
3. Marble inlay work table for Élisabeth Borne, Prime Minister of France
A stunning marble table showcasing the art of ‘Marble Inlay Work.’ This intricate craftsmanship involves cutting and engraving semi-precious stones on marble, sourced from Makrana, Rajasthan, known for its high-quality marble. The table features small pieces of semi-precious stones carefully placed into grooves, resulting in a beautiful and colourful masterpiece.
4. Hand-knitted Silk Kashmiri carpet for Yaël Braun-Pivet, President of French National Assembly
PM Modi presented a soft hand-knitted silk carpet from Kashmir. Known worldwide for its intricate knotted details and captivating colours, the carpet possesses a unique characteristic of displaying different shades when viewed from various angles. Often the colours tend to have a day-and-night variation in shades that seem to impart an illusion of viewing two carpets instead of the actual one carpet.
5. Sandalwood Hand-carved Elephant Ambavari for Gerard Larcher, President of French Senate
PM Modi gifted a decorative elephant figurine meticulously carved from pure sandalwood. These figurines symbolise wisdom, strength, and good fortune, holding a special place in Indian culture. They serve as a reminder of the harmonious connection between nature, culture, and art.
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