From CK Nayak
NEW DELHI, Aug 25: When the heads of state or government visit a foreign country on an official visit, they exchange gifts, normally unique products and at times live animals or birds as a symbol of friendship.
But this time when Narendra Modi visited Greece, the first Indian Prime Minister to do so in 40 years, he gifted an exquisite shawl from Meghalaya to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his wife Mareva Grabowski-Mitsotakis.
The PM also gifted a Dokra art piece from Chhattisgarh to the Greek Prime Minister and a pair of vases with Bidri art work from Telangana to Greek President Katerina N Sakellaropoulou.
Incidentally, Meghalaya shawls carry a rich history and a royal lineage that dates back centuries.
Shawls were originally woven by the Khasi and Jaintia royalty, who considered them as symbols of their power and status. The shawls were worn during ceremonial occasions and festivals, and their intricate designs and vibrant colours were a reflection of the royal family’s wealth and prestige.
The designs used in Meghalaya shawls were highly symbolic with use of animal motifs such as tigers and elephants. Both represent power and strength, while the use of floral patterns was a symbol of beauty and grace.
Made from locally sourced wool, and natural dyes, shawls made in Meghalaya are renowned for their warmth and softness most suitable for a highly mountainous European country like Greece. Meghalaya shawls’ weaving is an art form that requires great skill and creativity too.
The weavers, mostly women, spend hours weaving intricate designs and patterns using traditional weaving techniques. The shawls are highly prized for their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs.
The shawls made in Meghalaya have also gained international recognition and are sought after worldwide.
This gift from the Prime Minister to his counterpart’s wife will further popularise the indigenous product.