Administrator
13 February 2025
The answer is in the affirmative. Any doubt?
The truth is that gift-giving has long been a key aspect of diplomacy, reflecting cultural heritage and shared values.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embraced this tradition to highlight India’s rich artistry and craftsmanship, carefully selecting gifts with deep symbolic significance.
The most meaningful diplomatic gifts carry personal or emotional significance. They also serve as a platform to promote the nation’s industries and products, ensuring that local craftsmanship and businesses gain wider recognition.
Since taking office in 2014, PM Modi has used diplomatic gifts to convey important messages. What sets him apart is his ability to integrate two key initiatives—One District, One Product and Vocal for Local—into his gift selections.
Through this approach, he not only showcases India’s artisanal heritage but also reinforces the importance of supporting local production. During his recent visit to France for the AI Action Summit, he presented carefully curated gifts to French President Emmanuel Macron, First Lady Brigitte Macron, and the family of US Vice President J.D. Vance.
Each item was chosen to showcase India’s artistic excellence, sustainable craftsmanship, and traditional wisdom. A Tribute to Indian Craftsmanship The gifts presented to French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron highlighted India’s long-standing artistic traditions.
These selections reflected the country’s heritage of intricate craftsmanship and deep cultural symbolism. Dokra Artwork for President Macron For President Macron, Prime Minister Modi selected an exquisite Dokra artwork depicting traditional musicians.
This metal-casting tradition, originating from Chhattisgarh, is crafted using the ancient lost-wax technique. The intricate brass and copper piece, enhanced with lapis lazuli and coral, symbolises the vibrancy of India’s tribal heritage. By choosing this piece, Prime Minister Modi paid homage to India’s skilled artisans while celebrating music as a universal form of cultural expression.
Silver Hand-Engraved Mirror for First Lady Brigitte Macron A hand-engraved silver table mirror from Rajasthan was presented to Brigitte Macron, reflecting the region’s legacy of fine metalwork. Adorned with floral and peacock motifs, the mirror represents beauty, grace, and nature. The intricate detailing and polished finish make it a functional yet artistic heirloom, embodying India’s dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Thoughtful Gifts for the Next Generation During the summit, Prime Minister Modi also met US Vice President J.D. Vance, along with his wife, Indian-born Second Lady Usha Vance, and two of their three children, presenting them with specially curated gifts that reflected India’s commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage.
Wooden Railway Toy Set for Vivek Vance For Vivek Vance, son of the Vice President of the USA, a wooden railway toy set was chosen, blending nostalgia with eco-conscious craftsmanship. Made from natural wood and painted with vegetable dyes, it ensures child safety while embracing sustainability.
The traditional colours, derived from turmeric, beetroot, indigo, and neem, highlight India’s legacy of organic and handcrafted toys. This gift balances tradition and modernity, encouraging imaginative play with an eco-friendly touch.
Jigsaw Puzzle Based on Indian Folk Paintings for Ewan Blaine Vance Ewan Blaine Vance, son of the Vice President of the USA, received a jigsaw puzzle featuring renowned Indian folk painting styles, including Kalighat from West Bengal, Santhal from eastern India, and Madhubani from Bihar.
Each of these artistic traditions tells a unique story, depicting themes of mythology, daily life, and nature through bold colours and intricate patterns. By gifting a puzzle that introduces children to India’s diverse artistic heritage, Prime Minister Modi offered an engaging and educational experience that reinforces the significance of cultural storytelling.
Wooden Alphabet Set for Mirabel Rose Vance A wooden alphabet set was selected for Mirabel Rose Vance, daughter of the Vice President of the USA, reflecting India’s longstanding tradition of handmade wooden toys. Designed to enhance motor skills and cognitive development, this eco-friendly set promotes interactive learning while being free from harmful chemicals.
The choice of a wooden alphabet set underscores India’s emphasis on sustainable craftsmanship and education, reinforcing the idea that learning can be both enriching and environmentally conscious.
A Deeper Diplomatic Message Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these gifts conveyed India’s dedication to heritage, sustainability, and cultural exchange. Each selection thoughtfully represented India’s artistic traditions, highlighting the skill and creativity of its artisans.
Through these meaningful gestures, Prime Minister Modi reinforced India’s commitment to global partnerships while showcasing the country’s timeless traditions on an international stage. In conclusion, diplomatic gift-giving is more than a ceremonial exchange; it is a reflection of cultural identity and craftsmanship.
A subtle yet powerful tool of diplomacy, it can shape narratives, strengthen ties, and sometimes even assert influence. While the nature of these gifts may evolve, their role in foreign relations will continue to intertwine tradition, symbolism, and strategic intent.
