New Delhi, 30 June (H.S.): Showcasing India's rich heritage of handicrafts and handloom traditions on the global stage, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented an exquisite collection of traditional artworks and textiles from different states of India to the top leadership of Seychelles during his three-day visit to the island nation.

Prime Minister Modi presented a handcrafted Muradabad brass turtle, created by master artisans from Uttar Pradesh, to Seychelles President Patrick Herminie. The brass sculpture reflects Muradabad's renowned expertise in metal casting, engraving, and finishing. Its intricately crafted shell and polished finish highlight generations of exceptional craftsmanship.

In Indian philosophy, the turtle symbolizes wisdom, stability, patience, and longevity. The gift also carries special significance for Seychelles, home to the world-famous Aldabra giant tortoise, one of the largest and longest-living tortoise species on Earth. The Muradabad brass turtle was therefore chosen as a meaningful symbol of India's artistic excellence while celebrating the shared values of wisdom, harmony with nature, and the enduring friendship between India and Seychelles.

The Prime Minister also presented First Lady Veronique Herminie with a Maheshwari silk stole from Madhya Pradesh and a Bidriware box from Karnataka.

The Maheshwari silk stole is celebrated for its lightweight texture, graceful drape, and distinctive woven patterns. Originating from Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh, this traditional weaving craft is renowned for blending fine silk and cotton yarns. The stole features elegant geometric motifs, striped borders, floral patterns, and subtle colour combinations that showcase the sophistication and precision of Maheshwari weaving.

The Bidriware box represents one of India's finest metal craft traditions. It is distinguished by its striking contrast between a deep black metal surface and intricate silver inlay work. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, the box is adorned with delicate geometric and floral designs created using fine silver wire, reflecting exceptional craftsmanship and artistic excellence.

Vice President Sebastian Pillay was presented with an Orchid Art painting from Sikkim. The artwork depicts India's national bird, the peacock, amidst blooming orchids. As the orchid is the national flower of Seychelles, the gift symbolizes the shared commitment of both countries to biodiversity conservation and environmental preservation.

Second Lady Lina Pillay received an elegant piece of Kanchipuram silk fabric from Tamil Nadu. Bearing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, the fabric features intricate golden zari work along with vibrant red, green, and gold borders. Its luxurious weave, meticulous detailing, and harmonious colour palette reflect the artistic traditions of Kanchipuram. Inspired by temple architecture, nature, and traditional decorative motifs, Kanchipuram designs commonly feature peacocks, flowers, leaves, and geometric patterns woven with remarkable precision.

Speaker of the National Assembly of Seychelles, Azarel Ernesta, was presented with a handcrafted Toda embroidered shawl made by the Toda tribal community of the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu.

The shawl, woven from white cotton fabric and adorned with distinctive red and black geometric embroidery, represents India's rich tribal heritage and traditional craftsmanship. The embroidery technique, known as Pukhoor, is unique to the Toda community and is executed entirely by hand. Traditionally worn during ceremonies and important social occasions, the shawl symbolizes identity, continuity, and the preservation of indigenous knowledge.

The gift reflects India's remarkable cultural diversity and the enduring creativity of its artisan communities—values that resonate closely with Seychelles' own commitment to preserving its unique cultural heritage and traditions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar