Sandalwood sitar for Macron, Pochampally silk for his wife: PM Modi’s gift to French President

Paris: Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a sandalwood replica of the musical instrument sitar to French President Emmanuel Macron and Pochampally silk ikat in a sandalwood box to his wife Brigitte Macron, officials said on Friday. The decorative replica gifted to the President has images of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, arts, speech, intelligence and education, holding the musical instrument sitar and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

The unique replica of the musical instrument is made of pure sandalwood, officials said, adding that the art of sandalwood carving is an exquisite and ancient craft that has been practiced in southern India for centuries.

The piece has been painted with the peacock, the national bird of India, and decorated with intricate carvings that depict myriad motifs from Indian culture, he said. He said that the Pochampally silk Ikat fabric, which has its roots in the town of Pochampally in Telangana, is a mesmerizing testimony to India’s rich textile heritage.

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Renowned for its intricate designs and vibrant colours, the Pochampally silk ikat saree encapsulates the beauty, craftsmanship and cultural heritage of India, making it a true treasure in the world of textiles, he said.

PM Modi gifted a marble inlaid work table to his French counterpart Elisabeth Borne. This is one of the most attractive work of art done on marble using semi-precious stones. Officials said the base marble is found in Rajasthan’s Makrana city, which is famous for high-quality marble.

PM Modi’s gift of choice was a hand-woven silk cashmere carpet for French National Assembly Speaker Yelle Braun-Pivet, while he presented a sandalwood handwoven elephant Ambavari to French Senate President Gérard Larcher.