NEW DELHI, June 30: Showcasing India’s rich handloom traditions and artisanal craftsmanship, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a curated collection of traditional Indian gifts to Seychelles’ leadership during his three-day official visit to the island nation. The carefully selected gifts highlighted the cultural ties and shared environmental values between India and Seychelles.
President Patrick Herminie received a handcrafted Moradabadi brass tortoise, created by skilled artisans from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, widely known as India’s “Brass City.” The piece reflects the region’s renowned expertise in metal casting, engraving, and finishing. In Indian tradition, the tortoise symbolizes wisdom, stability, resilience, and longevity.
The gift also carries special significance for Seychelles, whose natural heritage is closely associated with the iconic Aldabra giant tortoise, creating a symbolic connection between Indian craftsmanship and the island nation’s unique ecological identity.
First Lady Veronique Herminie was presented with two examples of Indian craftsmanship: a Maheshwari silk stole and a Bidriware box.
Originating from Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh, the Maheshwari silk stole combines fine silk and cotton yarns and features delicate geometric and floral motifs in subtle hues, reflecting a centuries-old handloom tradition.
The accompanying Bidriware box, crafted in Bidar, Karnataka, showcases intricate silver inlay set against a deep black oxidized zinc and copper alloy surface. The handcrafted piece features finely detailed geometric and floral designs created using traditional silver inlay techniques.
Vice President Sebastien Pillay received an orchid-themed artwork from Sikkim.
The painting combines the state’s rich floral heritage with India’s national bird, the peacock, depicted among orchids and intricate vines. While the peacock represents India’s cultural heritage, the orchid—Seychelles’ national flower—symbolizes the two countries’ shared commitment to environmental conservation and biodiversity.
Second Lady Lina Pillay, wife of Vice President Sebastien Pillay, was presented with a Kanchivaram silk fabric from Tamil Nadu.
Known for its luxurious texture and exceptional durability, the fabric features a rich maroon base adorned with gold zari motifs and bordered with red, green, and gold accents. Inspired by traditional temple architecture and nature, the Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged textile is recognized under India’s One District One Product (ODOP) initiative and represents one of the country’s finest handloom traditions.
National Assembly Speaker Azarel Ernesta received a Toda embroidered shawl, handcrafted by the Toda community of the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu.
Woven on a white cotton base, the shawl features bold red and black geometric embroidery created using the traditional Pukhoor hand-weaving technique. Traditionally worn during sacred ceremonies, the textile reflects the preservation of indigenous knowledge and resonates with Seychelles’ commitment to safeguarding its own cultural heritage.
Prime Minister Modi concluded his three-day visit to Seychelles on Monday after the two countries reached 19 significant agreements and understandings spanning defense, space, healthcare, and other sectors. During the visit, President Herminie also conferred upon Modi the country’s highest honor, the “Guardian of the Blue Horizon.” (ANI)
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