Muradabadi Brass To Kanchivaram Silk: PM Modi’s Gifts For Seychelles Tell India’s Story

Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a collection of specially curated gifts to Seychelles’ leadership during his three-day State Visit, highlighting India’s rich artistic traditions and the enduring friendship between the two nations.

The handcrafted gifts represented diverse regions of India and reflected the country’s cultural heritage, craftsmanship and shared values with Seychelles.

President Patrick Herminie received a Muradabadi Brass Tortoise, a handcrafted masterpiece from Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad, renowned for its intricate brasswork.

Symbolising wisdom, resilience and longevity, the gift also holds special significance for Seychelles, home to the iconic Aldabra Giant Tortoise, reflecting the shared respect for nature between the two countries.

PM Modi presented First Lady Veronique Herminie with a Bidriware Box from Karnataka and a Maheshwari Silk Stole from Madhya Pradesh, showcasing India’s renowned metalcraft and handloom traditions.

The Prime Minister gifted Vice President Sebastien Pillay an Orchid Painting from Sikkim, symbolising the shared natural heritage of India and Seychelles, and presented Second First Lady Lina Pillay with Kanchivaram Silk Fabric, celebrated for its rich texture and intricate zari work.

PM Modi also presented National Assembly Speaker Azarel Ernesta with a Toda Embroidered Shawl, highlighting the indigenous craftsmanship of Tamil Nadu’s Toda community.

The shawl, featuring distinctive red and black geometric embroidery on a white cotton base, represents generations of indigenous craftsmanship and cultural preservation.

The carefully selected gifts underscored India’s cultural diplomacy, showcasing centuries-old artistic traditions while strengthening bilateral ties with Seychelles.

Each artefact symbolised not only India’s diverse heritage but also the shared values of friendship, craftsmanship, environmental harmony and mutual respect that continue to define relations between the two nations.