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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for his appreciation of India's diverse cultural heritage, once again donned the traditional Assamese Gamosa during the International Yoga Day celebrations in Kashmir.

 

This gesture brought attention to this significant symbol of Assamese culture. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma praised Modi, calling him the "brand ambassador" of the Gamosa, highlighting the Prime Minister's efforts in promoting Assamese heritage globally.

 

During the national-level Yoga Day celebrations, Prime Minister Modi prominently wore the traditional Assamese Gamosa, reinforcing its cultural significance.

 

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma lauded Modi's role in promoting the Gamosa, stating, "Modi is the quintessential brand ambassador of the Assamese Gamosa." 

 

Modi's frequent use of the Gamosa at notable events, including his visit to the United Nations headquarters and Kaziranga National Park, emphasizes its cultural importance and growing recognition beyond Assam.

 

In a social media post, Chief Minister Sarma highlighted Modi's unwavering appreciation for the Assamese Gamosa.

 

"Donning a Gamosa wherever he goes! Adarniya Shri Narendra Modi ji's love for our Assamese Gamosa is unparalleled, carrying it with finesse on important occasions," Sarma wrote.

 

His comments came during the Yoga Day celebrations in Kashmir, where Modi once again wore the Gamosa, leading the 10th International Day of Yoga celebrations observed worldwide.

 

Donning a Gamusa wherever he goes! 🙏

Adarniya Shri @narendramodi ji's love for our Assamese Gamusa is unparalleled; carrying it with finesse on important occasions.

Today at the national level #YogaDay celebrations in Kashmir, the Hon’ble PM again donned the Gamusa as the… pic.twitter.com/cABvUezDoe

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) June 21, 2024

 

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal echoed Sarma's sentiments, noting, "Associated with this beloved Gamosa is the spiritual devotion and solidarity of the devout masses of Krishnaguru Sevashram. On behalf of the people of Assam and the devotees of Krishnaguru Sevashram, I express my deep gratitude to PM Modi for once again showing his love and affection for the Gamosa."

 

Assam's Gamosa shines again!

Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji Modi sends the message of Yoga's greatness to the world from Srinagar in Jammu & Kashmir by wearing our very own Gamosa.

Associated with this beloved Gamosa is the spiritual devotion and solidarity of the devout… pic.twitter.com/02maDnS7lV

— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) June 21, 2024

 

This is not the first instance where Modi's affinity for the Gamosa has been highlighted. During International Yoga Day 2023, Modi attended a mass yoga session at the United Nations headquarters' lawns, where he not only performed various yoga asanas but also set a new Guinness World Record. His appearance, wearing the Assamese Gamosa around his neck, drew significant attention to this cultural symbol.

 

Modi's journey to the United States last year further showcased his connection to the Gamosa. Sharing a picture on social media, he wore a traditional Kurta-Pajama accompanied by the Gamosa.

 

"A long flight also means opportunities to go through papers and some file work," Modi captioned the photo.

 

Prime Minister Modi's penchant for the Assamese Gamosa is well-documented. He frequently wears Gamosas made by various self-help groups from Assam, thereby supporting local artisans and promoting their craft.

 

In 2019, during his visit to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Modi once again donned the Assamese Gamosa, reinforcing his commitment to showcasing India's diverse cultural heritage.

 

The significance of the Gamosa extends beyond Modi's personal use. During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma praised Modi as the quintessential brand ambassador of the Assamese Gamosa. 

 

Speaking at a rally, Sarma emphasised, "Have you ever seen any Indian prime minister wearing Assamese traditional Gamosa instead of Narendra Modi? He is from Gujarat but whenever he visits other places, he always wears an Assamese Gamosa. Many people have started wearing Gamosa after seeing Modi Ji. Like any other product that has a brand ambassador, Narendra Modi is the brand ambassador of our Assamese Gamosa."

 

Sarma also recalled Modi's visit to Kaziranga National Park, highlighting the Prime Minister's hands-on approach to experiencing and promoting the beauty of Assam. "Do you remember any former Indian Prime Minister spending a night in Kaziranga and taking an early ride to the park? But Narendra Modi did," Sarma noted.

 

Highlighting Modi's efforts in amplifying Assamese culture on the global stage, Sarma noted the Prime Minister's recognition of the Bihu dance and the prestigious Bharat Ratna conferred upon legendary musician Bhupen Hazarika. With Modi's extensive visits to Assam—27 times during his tenure—the Chief Minister extolled his unparalleled commitment and love for the state.

 

The Assamese Gamosa, a handwoven cotton textile from Assam, is usually white with crimson or maroon stripes on the edges and may include ornate motifs woven into it. This versatile piece of cloth plays a vital role in Assamese culture and is worn in various social, cultural, and religious activities.

 

Additionally, the Gamosa represents hospitality, kindness, and respect, often given as a gift to guests or used to honor significant people. In recent years, the Gamosa, also known as Gamucha, has gained popularity outside of Assam and is now recognized as a symbol of India's entire northeast region.

 

PM Modi's consistent use of the Gamosa not only honors Assamese traditions but also brings national and international attention to this distinctive piece of Indian culture.