Digital Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi showcased the beauty and details of Indian craftsmanship by presenting exquisite gifts to world leaders attending the G7 Summit which took place in Kananaski, Canada, earlier this week.
PM Modi presented a Dokra Nandi to French President Emmanuel Macron. Additionally, he gifted a sandstone replica of the Konark wheel to the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, and a Kolhapari silver pot to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The exquisite Dokra Nandi, which PM Modi presented to French President Macron, is a Nandi sculpture originating from Tamil Nadu. This piece exemplifies a harmonious blend of spiritual artistry and traditional metal craftsmanship, constructed using the ancient lost wax technique. It depicts Nandi which is a sacred bull and companion of Lord Shiva. The bull’s body features an open lattice pattern, characteristic of Dokra art, and is adorned with delicate motifs. Although Dokra art predominantly originates from eastern India, this particular figurine merges tribal tradition with the religious style of Tamil Nadu.
PM Modi gifted the Chancellor of Germany a remarkable sandstone Konark Wheel replica from Odisha. This intricately carved artifact draws inspiration from the renowned Sun Temple at Konark. Made from natural sandstone, this piece replicates the design of the original 13th century wheel, which functions not only as a sundial but also as a symbol representing time, movement and the cosmos.
The authentic Konark Wheel features twenty-four spokes, often symbolising the 24 hours of a day or 12 months of a year, thereby showing the endless cycle of time. This replica includes carvings of dancers, gods, and floral motifs, mirroring the original and showcasing the craftsmanship of Odisha’s traditional artisans. Beyond its ornamental value, the wheel embodies profound philosophical concepts such as Dharma and is even part of India’s national flag.
PM Modi presented his Australian counterpart, Prime Minister Albanese with a Kolhapuri Silver Pot. This beautiful piece originates from Kohalpur in Maharashtra, a place known for its distinguished silver craftsmanship. This elegant piece is crafted from pure silver and is decorated with detailed floral and paisley designs, all hand-engraved by skilled local artists.
The pot also has an ornate lid, demonstrating the perfect mixture of beauty and function. Historically, such silver pots were utilised in temples and royal households for storage of holy water, offerings, or served as decorative objects during special ceremonial occasions. The designs are inspired by elements of nature, Maratha art, and temple architecture and are made using careful and time intensive techniques.
Presently, these pots are appreciated not only for their visuals but also for their cultural and spiritual significance. This silver pot is more than just a container and serves as a symbol of Maharashtra’s artistic heritage and artisanal skill.
The G7 summit is an international annual convening of leaders from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, Canada, and the European Union (EU).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelled to Canada to participate in this summit. His visit to Canada marked the sixth consecutive engagement with the G7 Summit and constituted his first visit to Canada in ten years.
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