Source Credit: IANS
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day official visit to Mauritius, gifted some culturally important presents to President Dharam Gokhool and his wife.
The Gangajal from Maha Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, Makhana, an energy-superfood from Bihar, and a Banarasi saree for the First Lady of Mauritius: sincere gifts to forge even closer the cultural and diplomatic relationship of the two nations.
This sets about packaging the ganga-jal, which traditionally symbolises purity and spirituality, in a brass-copper pot, bringing in a little touch of traditional Indian craftsmanship. Bihar has one other internationally famed super food: the makhana gift pack as healthy and culturally meaningful.
For the President's wife, PM Modi selected a very expensive Banarasi saree, a very well known symbol of India's rich cultural heritage. This was a fine silk brocaded saree with silver zari motifs. The saree was placed in a Sadeli box, a box beautifully crafted in Gujarat and known for its excellent and intricate inlay work for preserving expensive things.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi met the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, and the two dignitaries planted a sapling at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, marking a commitment to sustainable development and greener tomorrows.
PM Modi took to social media extolling the fine initiative as being a naturo-syndicated homage to motherhood. This visit has been the first experience of PM Modi being welcomed warmly as he alighted from his flight. This is the first visit to Mauritius after nearly a decade, the last trip being in 2015.
