During the recent BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented unique Indian art pieces to world leaders, celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage.
According to officials, PM Modi selected gifts that reflect the traditional craftsmanship and artistry of various Indian states.
For Russian President Vladimir Putin, PM Modi gifted a Sohrai painting from Jharkhand's Hazaribagh district. Recognized as an ODOP (One District One Product) item, Sohrai paintings are created using natural pigments and simple tools such as twigs, rice straws, or even fingers. Known for their simplicity and expressive storytelling, Sohrai paintings often feature animals, birds, and elements of nature, capturing the agrarian lifestyle and reverence for wildlife within Jharkhand’s tribal communities.
Maharashtra's arts were also prominently featured. PM Modi presented a Mother of Pearl (MOP) sea-shell vase, crafted by coastal artisans, to Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, symbolizing the intricate artistry and natural resources of Maharashtra's coastlines.
Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev received a traditional Warli painting, a 5,000-year-old art form from Maharashtra’s Warli tribe, celebrated for its minimalistic yet profound style. Created with basic geometric shapes, Warli paintings depict tribal life, festivals, and nature, connecting ancient traditions to contemporary mediums. In 2014, Warli art received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking it as an important cultural heritage.
Through these gifts, PM Modi highlighted India’s diverse and enduring artistic traditions, showcasing them on an international platform and strengthening cultural ties with fellow BRICS nations.