Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Seychelles on June 30 highlighted India’s rich handloom heritage and artisanal craftsmanship. During the three-day official visit, Modi presented a carefully curated selection of traditional Indian crafts to the leadership of Seychelles, reinforcing the longstanding cultural and environmental ties between New Delhi and Victoria.

Among the gifts was a Muradabadi Brass Tortoise, presented to Seychelles President Patrick Herminie. This handcrafted piece originates from Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh, known internationally as the “Brass City.” The tortoise is imbued with symbolism in Indian culture, representing wisdom, stability, and resilience. Its presentation to Herminie resonates with Seychelles, where the Aldabra Giant Tortoise plays a crucial role in the islands’ natural heritage, establishing a meaningful connection between the two nations.

Artistic Masterpieces for Seychelles Leadership

First Lady Veronique Herminie received two distinctive gifts: a Maheshwari Silk Stole and a Bidriware Box. The Maheshwari Silk Stole, crafted in Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh, elegantly combines silk and cotton yarns, featuring floral and geometric motifs in soft colours. This textile highlights a fine handloom tradition that has been preserved across generations.

Accompanying the stole was a Bidriware Box from Bidar, Karnataka. This exquisite piece showcases an intricate design of bright silver inlay on a deep black oxidised surface made of zinc and copper alloy. The fine silver wire detailing creates geometric and floral motifs, demonstrating the skilled artistry that characterises Bidriware. These gifts collectively encapsulate India’s rich cultural tapestry.

Vice President Sebastien Pillay received a striking Orchid Art Painting from Sikkim, chosen specifically by the Prime Minister. This artwork beautifully intertwines India’s floral heritage through the depiction of its national bird, the peacock, amidst delicate orchids. The painting serves as a diplomatic emblem, linking the peacock—a symbol of India’s cultural essence—with the orchid, which is Seychelles’ National Flower, reflecting the shared commitment to environmental conservation.

Further Cultural Offerings and Outcomes

Second Lady Lina Pillay was presented with Kanchivaram Silk Fabric, renowned for its luxurious texture and exceptional durability. This product originates from Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, and features a rich maroon backdrop accented with intricate gold zari motifs. The design, inspired by traditional temple architecture, further highlights India’s exceptional handloom weaving techniques.

Seychelles National Assembly Speaker Azarel Ernesta received a Toda Embroidered Shawl, completing the set of cultural gifts. This prominent textile is handcrafted by the Toda community in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. The shawl, featuring bold red and black geometric patterns on a white cotton base, showcases a unique hand-weaving technique known as Pukhoor, traditionally used during sacred ceremonies. The shawl stands as a testament to both the artistic tradition of the Toda community and Seychelles’ dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.

Concluding his landmark visit, Prime Minister Modi left Seychelles on Monday after finalising 19 significant outcomes across various sectors, including defence, space, and healthcare. He was also conferred the title of ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’ by President Herminie, marking a successful diplomatic engagement between the two nations.

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