Vientiane (Laos): Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, met his counterparts from several countries including Japan, New Zealand, Thailand and others in Laos's Vientiane where he presented culture-riched gifts. The meetings came on the sidelines of the ASEAN-India Summit. Among the notable gifts, Modi gave New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon a pair of majestic silver lamps adorned with rubies from Maharashtra.
These gifts, which highlight India’s artistry and craftsmanship, also included a vintage brass Buddha statue with mina (enamel) work for Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, a Patan Patola scarf in a Sadeli box for Naly Sisoulith, the President's spouse, a Kadamwood embossed Buddha head for Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, and a malachite and camel bone box featuring a Radha-Krishna theme for his spouse.
Kadamwood is known for its durability and intricate embossing.
PM Modi's gift for the President of Laos: Serene Enlightenment: Vintage Brass Buddha with Mina Work
During his meeting with Laos President, Thongloun Sisoulith, Prime Minister Modi "Serene Enlightenment: Vintage Brass Buddha with Mina Work". Crafted by skilled artisans from Tamil Nadu, the piece embodies the essence of South Indian craftsmanship and Buddhist philosophy. The statue has been crafted from brass, a popular material in South Indian art for its durability and smooth finish.
PM Modi's gift to Laos President's spouse: Patan Patola Scarf in Sadeli Box
The (Double Ikat) Patan Patola textile woven by the Salvi family in the Patan area of Northern Gujarat is so well crafted that it becomes a feast of colours, with the front and the back being indistinguishable. Patola is a term derived from the Sanskrit word "Pattu" meaning silk fabric and can be traced back to ancient times.
The Patan Patola is packed in a ‘Sadeli’ box, which in itself is a decorative piece. The art of Sadeli inlay has a rich history dating back several centuries. It is believed to have originated in Surat, Gujarat. Sadeli is a highly skilled woodcraft. It involves precisely cutting geometric patterns on wooden articles. Through their intricate designs and meticulous inlay work, they serve as tangible reminders of a bygone era and continue to captivate admirers with their timeless beauty.
Meanwhile, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba received a silver peacock figurine, crafted with detailed nakkashi (carving) work from West Bengal.
For Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Modi presented a low-height wooden table from Ladakh, a vibrant piece featuring intricate carvings that embody the cultural essence of the Himalayan region.
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