Gifts of heritage: PM Modi presents handcrafted Indian artefacts to Ghanaian leaders on historic visit

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up the first leg of his five-nation tour with a historic visit to Ghana, the first by an Indian PM in over three decade. The Prime Minister left behind more than just diplomatic goodwill. Modi presented the Ghanaian leadership with a set of carefully curated traditional Indian gifts, each reflecting the depth of India’s cultural and artisanal heritage.

To the President of Ghana: A timeless symbol from Karnataka

Fine Bidri Artwork Vase

This exquisite pair of Bidriware flower vases from Bidar, Karnataka, showcases India’s renowned metal craft known for its striking black finish and fine silver inlay.

Handcrafted by skilled artisans using a centuries-old technique, the vases are made from a zinc-copper alloy, engraved with floral motifs symbolising beauty and prosperity, and finished with a unique oxidation process for their iconic look.

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Combining traditional artistry with a contemporary form, they symbolise harmony and togetherness, making them an elegant, meaningful gift for weddings, anniversaries, festivals, or corporate occasions. More than décor, they embody Karnataka’s rich craft heritage and timeless artistry.

To the Vice President of Ghana: Kashmiri Pashmina shawl

This luxurious Pashmina Shawl, crafted from the fine undercoat of the Changthangi goat in Kashmir, represents timeless artistry and elegance. Renowned for its exceptional softness, warmth, and lightness, the shawl features intricate hand-embroidered floral and paisley motifs iconic to Kashmiri heritage.

Each piece involves meticulous hand-spinning, weaving, and embroidery by skilled artisans, often taking weeks or months to complete. Celebrated worldwide, a genuine Pashmina is both a functional winter accessory and a symbol of India’s rich textile legacy, making it a meaningful and sophisticated gift.

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Gift to Spouse of President of Ghana

Silver Filigree Work Purse

This elegant Silver Filigree Work Purse from Cuttack, Odisha, is a stunning example of the region’s renowned Tarakasi craft — intricate silver filigree perfected over 500 years.

Meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, it features delicate floral and vine motifs formed from fine silver wires, combining airy lightness with durability and elegance.

Traditionally used in jewellery, Cuttack’s filigree now adorns modern accessories like this purse, blending heritage with contemporary style.

It symbolises grace, cultural pride and artisanal mastery, making it a timeless keepsake of Odisha’s rich craft tradition.

Gift to Speaker of Ghana

Miniature Elephant Ambawari

This exquisite Miniature Elephant Ambawari, handcrafted in West Bengal, symbolizes royal tradition and India’s rich artistic heritage. Inspired by ceremonial processions where elephants carried nobility in ornate howdahs, this piece is made from polished synthetic ivory — an ethical, durable alternative to natural ivory.

Every detail, from floral motifs to the grand canopy, is carved with precision by skilled artisans. Encased in a protective display box, it’s an elegant decorative piece and a meaningful gift that celebrates India’s regal pageantry, fine craftsmanship, and timeless cultural legacy.

Modi calls for unity and reforms in global governance

During his address to the Parliament of Ghana, PM Modi drew on the shared colonial past of both nations, calling India-Ghana ties “sweet” and rooted in common struggles. “Our spirits have always remained free and fearless,” he said, adding that both countries take pride in their cultural diversity and commitment to unity and dignity.

Modi also used the occasion to advocate for reforms in global governance and amplifying the voice of the Global South—a message consistent with India’s G20 presidency under which the African Union was made a permanent member.

Next stop: Trinidad and Tobago

Having concluded the Ghana leg of his tour, PM Modi now heads to Trinidad and Tobago for the second leg of his five-nation outreach. The focus on cultural diplomacy and symbolic gifting continues to define this journey as a blend of strategic engagement and celebration of India’s heritage on the global stage.