PM Modi Showcases India’s Artistic Heritage with Thoughtful Gifts to Ghanaian Leaders During Landmark Visit
In a gesture rich with cultural symbolism and diplomatic warmth, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his historic two-day visit to Ghana, presented a series of exquisite handcrafted Indian artefacts to the country’s top leaders.
The move was widely seen as a tribute to India’s vibrant artisanal heritage and centuries-old craftsmanship, aimed at strengthening the bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between the two nations.
As his visit drew to a close on Thursday, Prime Minister Modi handed over specially curated traditional Indian gifts that reflect not just India’s artistry but also the values of beauty, harmony, and sustainability deeply embedded in its creative traditions.
Gift to Ghanaian President: Bidriware Vases from Karnataka
To President John Dramani Mahama, PM Modi presented a magnificent pair of Bidriware vases, crafted by master artisans from Bidar in Karnataka. Bidriware, known for its striking contrast of silver inlay on a blackened metal surface, is an ancient metal handicraft that dates back to the 14th century and flourished under the patronage of the Bahmani sultans.
The vases, made from a blend of zinc and copper alloy, are given a signature black patina through a traditional oxidation process. They are then inlaid with pure silver, intricately engraved into graceful floral motifs that symbolise beauty, prosperity, and harmonious living.
The vases not only represent a piece of Indian history and craftsmanship but also serve as emblems of enduring cultural diplomacy.
Gift to the First Lady: Silver Filigree Purse from Odisha
To First Lady Lordina Mahama, PM Modi gifted an elegant handcrafted silver filigree purse from Cuttack, Odisha, a city world-renowned for its age-old Tarakasi craftsmanship.
This intricate art form, believed to be over 500 years old, involves twisting ultra-fine strands of pure silver into delicate lace-like patterns.
The gifted purse showcased a sophisticated blend of traditional floral and vine motifs, masterfully assembled by hand, with a contemporary shape and finish that aligns with modern sensibilities.
The piece exemplified the marriage of heritage artistry with present-day elegance, representing not just a fashion accessory but also a legacy of Indian design excellence.
Gift to the Vice-President: Authentic Kashmiri Pashmina Shawl
To Ghana’s Vice-President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Prime Minister Modi presented a luxurious Pashmina shawl—a prized product of the famed Kashmiri textile tradition.
Woven from the ultra-fine wool harvested from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat native to Ladakh, genuine Pashmina is renowned across the world for its unparalleled softness, warmth, and fineness.
Every shawl is an outcome of months of meticulous handwork — from hand-spinning the delicate fibre, to weaving and then embroidery, often done by highly skilled Kashmiri artisans.
Each piece is one-of-a-kind, steeped in tradition, and a testament to the patience and precision required in high-quality textile production. The gift symbolised India’s time-honoured respect for handcrafted luxury and artisanal dignity.
