New Delhi, May 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to India on Thursday after a five-nation tour. During this trip, he brought special and valuable gifts for the leaders of the UAE. Upon arriving in the UAE, PM Modi presented gifts on behalf of India to the President, Crown Prince, and Queen Mother of the UAE.
PM Modi gifted the UAE President a ‘Rogan Painting’ featuring the ‘Tree of Life’.
The ‘Rogan Painting’ is a rare and beautiful textile art from the Kutch region of Gujarat, known for its intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors. The ‘Tree of Life’ design is considered ancient and symbolic, representing life, connection, strength, renewal, and continuity. Its roots are grounded in the earth while its branches reach towards the sky, illustrating a balance between tradition and progress, which resonates with the UAE’s ethos. The colors used in this art are raised and vibrant, showcasing slow yet meticulous and durable craftsmanship.
Additionally, PM Modi presented the UAE President with special Indian fruits, including ‘Kesar Mangoes’ and ‘Meghalaya Pineapples’.
The ‘Kesar Mango’ is a unique GI-tagged mango from Gujarat, often referred to as the ‘Queen of Mangoes’. It is believed to have originated from Junagadh. Its flesh is golden-orange, fiberless, and highly aromatic. In Gujarat, it is particularly enjoyed as ‘Aamras’ during festivals and hospitality events, reflecting the region’s rich tradition and warmth.
The ‘Meghalaya Pineapple’ is also a GI-tagged fruit, recognized as one of the best in the world. Grown in Meghalaya’s clean and hilly terrain, these pineapples are known for their sweetness and aroma, with minimal acidity. They are considered healthy due to the presence of bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and reduces inflammation, along with high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Furthermore, PM Modi brought a ‘Koftgiri Khanjar’ and ‘Mithila Makhana’ for the UAE Crown Prince.
The ‘Koftgiri Khanjar’ is a traditional ceremonial dagger adorned with exquisite Koftgiri art. This rare handicraft is crafted by silversmiths and traditional metal artisans in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Fine gold and silver wires are intricately embedded into iron, creating floral and geometric designs. Historically, it was patronized by Rajput kings, symbolizing artistry and prestige. Today, only a few artisans continue this tradition.
Similar to the tradition of ‘Khanjar’ in the UAE, this Indian dagger symbolizes courage, honor, and royal heritage, representing a unique bond of friendship and cultural respect between India and the UAE.
‘Mithila Makhana’ is a special product from the Mithila region of Bihar, also GI-tagged. It is cultivated in ponds and water bodies and is known for being light, crunchy, and highly nutritious. Rich in protein, minerals, and antioxidants, it is used in various culinary and religious traditions.
Additionally, PM Modi presented gifts to the UAE Queen Mother, including a ‘Karimnagar Filigree Box’, ‘Maheshwari Silk Fabric’, and ‘Chak Hao Rice’.
The ‘Karimnagar Filigree Box’ is a finely crafted silver box, showcasing the famous metal carving art from Karimnagar, Telangana. Beautiful designs are painstakingly created on silver sheets using a hammer. The box depicts a royal procession featuring elephants and howdahs, symbolizing grandeur, respect, and celebration. It represents not just an art form but also a cultural heritage.
‘Maheshwari Silk Fabric’ is a beautiful and renowned handloom tradition from Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh. This fabric is lightweight, soft, and has a subtle sheen. It is made from a blend of silk and cotton, making it comfortable and visually appealing. Promoted in the 18th century by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, Maheshwar became a significant center for art and culture. Notably, it features a ‘reversible border’, allowing it to be worn on both sides, symbolizing women’s leadership and traditional craftsmanship.
‘Chak Hao Rice’, known as ‘black rice’ from Manipur, is a prized and aromatic variety from the fertile valleys of Northeast India. Traditionally regarded as ‘royal rice’, it was once reserved for royalty and special occasions. Besides its unique flavor and deep purple color, Chak Hao rice is valued for its high nutritional content, including dietary fiber, iron, and antioxidants. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy properties, providing sustained energy due to its slowly digestible carbohydrates.
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