PM Modi’s royal tribute: Handpicked Indian masterpieces for Macron, first lady brigitte

During his official visit to France in July 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a series of meticulously curated gifts to French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron, each reflecting India's rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

Gift to President Emmanuel Macron: sandalwood sitar

Prime Minister Modi gifted President Macron a unique replica of a sitar, intricately carved from pure sandalwood. This exquisite piece features depictions of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and music, holding the sitar, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The artwork is further adorned with images of peacocks, India's national bird, and showcases a variety of traditional Indian motifs. The art of sandalwood carving is an ancient craft practiced in Southern India for centuries. 
 

Gift to first lady Brigitte Macron: Pochampally silk ikat saree in a sandalwood box

For First Lady Brigitte Macron, Prime Minister Modi selected a Pochampally silk ikat saree, renowned for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. Originating from Pochampally in Telangana, this fabric is a testament to India's rich textile heritage. The saree was elegantly presented in a decorative sandalwood box, itself a piece of art featuring detailed carvings of traditional motifs and historical scenes. These thoughtfully chosen gifts not only highlight India's artistic traditions but also serve to strengthen the cultural ties between India and France.

India’s cultural and artistic diversity

By selecting these handcrafted gifts, PM Modi emphasised India’s commitment to preserving its traditional crafts and promoting indigenous artisans. The choice of Dokra art from Chhattisgarh and silver metalwork from Rajasthan showcases the depth of India’s cultural and artistic diversity. These thoughtful gifts serve as symbols of India’s rich heritage and craftsmanship, strengthening cultural ties between India and France.