In a display of India’s rich cultural heritage, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented exquisite handcrafted works from Maharashtra and Jharkhand to global leaders during the recent BRICS Summit, according to officials.
Modi gifted a stunning Mother of Pearl (MOP) sea-shell vase to Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Sourced from the skilled coastal artisans of Maharashtra, this vase exemplifies the state’s artisanal craftsmanship and natural beauty, showcasing India's commitment to preserving traditional skills.
To Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Modi presented a traditional Warli painting, a distinguished art form originating from Maharashtra’s Warli tribe.
This painting, which boasts a cultural significance that dates back nearly 5,000 years, is celebrated worldwide for its distinctive style and minimalistic aesthetic.
Characterised by basic geometric shapes, Warli art illustrates various aspects of tribal life, including nature, festivals, and communal activities.
The painting has earned a Masoud Pezeshkian (GI) tag since 2014, reflecting its evolution into contemporary mediums while retaining its historical roots.
For Russian President Vladimir Putin, Modi offered a striking Sohrai painting from Jharkhand's Hazaribagh district.
Recognised as an ODOP (One District One Product), Sohrai art is distinguished by its use of natural pigments and simplistic tools. Artists typically employ brushes made from twigs, rice straw, or even their fingers to create intricate designs that tell expressive stories.
The depictions of animals, birds, and nature echo the agrarian lifestyle and the profound respect for wildlife ingrained in tribal culture, officials noted.