From Thekua To Thewa Art: What Did PM Modi Gift To Foreign Leaders?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi showcased India's rich cultural heritage during his recent diplomatic engagements by presenting carefully selected traditional gifts to top leaders of Slovakia and France. The gifts reflected India's centuries-old craftsmanship, artistic excellence, textile traditions and intellectual contributions to the world.

From handwoven silk and tribal metal art to ancient Ayurvedic texts and regional delicacies, each gift carried a deeper cultural message and highlighted India's diverse heritage.

Gifts Presented to Slovak President Peter Pellegrini

PM Modi gifted a collection of traditional Indian handicrafts and accessories to Slovak President Peter Pellegrini.

One of the most notable gifts was a Brass Dokra Antelope Set. Dokra is an ancient metal-casting art form practised by tribal communities in states such as Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Made using the traditional lost-wax technique, each piece is handcrafted and unique.

The President also received a Himroo Silk Tie and Pocket Square. Originating from Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Himroo weaving combines silk and cotton to create elegant fabrics known for their soft texture and intricate designs.

Another special gift was a pair of handcrafted Thewa motif cufflinks. Thewa is a rare jewellery-making technique from Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district, where finely engraved gold work is fused onto coloured glass to create detailed artistic patterns.

Gift given by PM Modi to Speaker of Slovakia Richard Raši | Thekua is a traditional sweet snack from the Indian states of Bihar and Jharkhand, made using wheat flour, jaggery or sugar, fennel seeds, and ghee. It is especially prepared during festivals, most notably Chhath Puja.… pic.twitter.com/p77Z3GqSiO

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026

A Kashmiri Masterpiece for Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico

For Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, PM Modi selected a luxurious Kashmiri silk carpet.
Hand-knotted by skilled artisans from the Kashmir Valley, particularly Srinagar, these carpets are known worldwide for their detailed craftsmanship and elegant patterns. The designs often feature floral motifs, vines, paisleys and medallions inspired by Kashmir's natural beauty and artistic traditions.

Gift given by PM Modi to PM of Slovakia Robert Fico | Kashmiri Silk Carpet: The Kashmiri Silk Carpet is a prestigious hand-knotted craft from the Kashmir Valley, especially the Srinagar region. Crafted from high-quality natural silk, it is known for its intricate floral, paisley,… pic.twitter.com/AbqBz51Dib

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026

Kashmiri carpets are considered among India's most prized handicrafts and can take months or even years to complete.

Ancient Indian Knowledge for Slovak Speaker Richard Raši

PM Modi presented Slovak Speaker Richard Raši with copies of the Charaka Samhita and Susruta Samhita, two of the most important texts in Ayurveda.

Gift given by PM Modi to Speaker of Slovakia Richard Raši | Susruta Samhita: Susruta Saṃhita is a foundational ancient Ayurvedic text attributed to the physician Susruta and is considered one of the earliest and most important works on surgery. It describes advanced surgical… pic.twitter.com/SAfSchDQph

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026

The Charaka Samhita focuses on medicine, health, disease prevention and overall well-being. The Susruta Samhita is famous for its detailed descriptions of surgery, anatomy and medical instruments, many of which were developed thousands of years ago.

These texts are regarded as milestones in the history of medicine and highlight India's contributions to science and healthcare.

Along with the books, the Speaker also received Thekua, a traditional sweet snack from Bihar and Jharkhand. Made from wheat flour, jaggery, ghee and fennel seeds, Thekua is closely associated with the Chhath festival and remains an important part of regional culture.

A Mahabharata-Inspired Artwork for French President Emmanuel Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron received a hand-painted Kalamkari artwork based on scenes from the Mahabharata.

Gift given by PM Narendra Modi to French President Emmanuel Macron | Kalamkari Mahabharata Painting:

This hand-crafted Kalamkari painting from Andhra Pradesh showcases India’s rich artistic heritage and took nearly six months to complete. Created using traditional pen-drawing… pic.twitter.com/RBcLZvLncG

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026

Created by artisans from Andhra Pradesh, Kalamkari is a traditional art form that uses hand-drawn designs and natural colours. The painting reportedly took nearly six months to complete and depicts important episodes from the ancient Indian epic.

The Mahabharata is one of the world's longest epics and explores themes such as duty, morality, courage and justice, making the gift both artistic and symbolic.

Traditional Silk Stole for Brigitte Macron

PM Modi gifted Brigitte Macron, the wife of French President Emmanuel Macron, a Pochampally Silk Stole from Telangana.

Gift given by PM Modi to Global leaders at G7 Summit

Banarasi Silk Stole is a traditional handwoven textile from Varanasi, crafted from fine silk and decorated with intricate zari work. Known for its elegant texture and detailed motifs inspired by nature, it reflects centuries… pic.twitter.com/Exnva8RrUd

— IANS (@ians_india) June 19, 2026

Pochampally textiles are known for their beautiful Ikat weaving technique, where threads are dyed before weaving to create complex geometric and floral patterns. The handwoven silk stole reflects India's rich textile heritage and the skill of local artisans who have preserved the craft for generations.

Cultural Diplomacy Through Indian Heritage

The gifts presented by PM Modi were more than ceremonial exchanges. They represented India's diverse cultural identity and highlighted the country's traditional crafts, literature, medicine, food and textiles.

Through these thoughtful selections, India sought to strengthen cultural connections with global leaders while promoting local artisans and indigenous crafts on the international stage.

The gesture also reflected the government's "Vocal for Local" vision, which encourages the promotion of Indian products and craftsmanship across the world. By gifting these cultural treasures, PM Modi not only honoured diplomatic relationships but also introduced global leaders to the richness of India's heritage.