Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took an opportunity to market the traditional Indian crafts and textiles at the BRICS Summit 2023 by gifting the world leaders products that can mesmerise them. From the traditional shawls of Nagaland and Meghalaya to bidrivase and Gond paintings, PM Modi ensured that the world gets to know about the beauty of our handicrafts and paintings.
PM gifts bidri work pair of surahi from Telangana to South African President
Bidrivase is a purely Indian Innovation of 500 years old Persian exclusive to Bidar. Bidrivase is cast with an alloy of Zink, Copper and other non-ferrous metals. Pretty patterns are engraved on the casting and inlaid with pure Silver wire. The casting is then soaked in a solution mixed with special soil of Bidar fort which has special oxidising properties. This causes the zinc alloy to turn into a lustrous black leaving the silver inlay intact to contrast stunningly with the black background.
Silver Nakkashi is a centuries old craft. The patterns are first drawn on paper and then transferred on silver sheets. Silver sheets are beaten into shape with hammer and fine tools. Final touching, polishing, buffing is done to make the article exotic. The work, which is carried out in many parts of India and particularly in the State of Karnataka, requires a lot of hard work, accuracy and excellent skills.
PM gifts Nagaland shawl to the first lady of South Africa
Naga shawls are an exquisite form of textile art that has been woven for centuries by the tribes in the state of Nagaland in the northeastern part of India. These shawls are known for their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and the use of traditional weaving techniques, which have been passed down from generation to generation.
The Naga shawl is made from locally sourced materials such as cotton, silk, and wool. One of the most striking features of the Naga shawl is the use of geometric and symbolic designs. The designs are inspired by the tribe’s myths, legends, and beliefs, with designs having specific meanings and significance.
Each Naga shawl tells a unique story, reflecting the tribe’s history, beliefs, and way of life. The colors used in the Naga shawls are symbolic. The Nagas believe that colors have a profound impact on their lives and well-being. Red, for instance, symbolizes courage, while black represents mourning. White is associated with purity, and green is a symbol of growth and prosperity. The weavers often use natural dyes made from plants and roots to create these vibrant colors.
PM gifts Gond painting from Madhya Pradesh to Brazilian President
Gond paintings are one of the most admired tribal art form. The word ‘Gond’ comes from the Dravidian expression ‘Kond’ which means ‘green mountain’. These paintings, created by dots and lines, have been a part of pictorial art on walls and floors of Gonds and it is done with the construction and re-construction of each and every house, with locally available natural colours and materials like charcoal, coloured soil, plant sap, leaves, cow dung, lime stone powder, etc.
Meghalaya shawl to spouse of Greece PM
Meghalaya shawls carry a rich history and a royal lineage that dates back centuries. Meghalaya shawls were originally woven for the Khasi and Jaintia royalty, who considered them a symbol of their power and status. The shawls were worn during ceremonial occasions and festivals, and their intricate designs and vibrant colours were a reflection of the royal family’s wealth and prestige.
The designs used in Meghalaya shawls were highly symbolic. For instance, the use of animal motifs such as tigers and elephants was a symbol of power and strength, while the use of floral patterns was a symbol of beauty and grace.
Renowned for their warmth and softness, Meghalaya shawls’ weaving is an art form that requires great skill and creativity. The weavers, mostly women, spend hours weaving intricate designs and patterns using traditional weaving techniques. The shawls are made using locally sourced wool, and natural dyes.
The shawls are highly prized for their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs. The shawls have also gained international recognition and are sought after by textile enthusiasts worldwide.
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