Rome/New Delhi: The threads of ‘sweet diplomacy’ between Rome and New Delhi have been woven into carefully curated gifts from India’s north-east, beyond the pack of toffees that gave social media an abundant supply of Modi-Melody (Meloni) memes. After surprising his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni with the ‘melody’ bites during his stop at Rome during his five-nation tour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gifted her traditional drapes from Assam and Manipur.
Here’s what Modi gave Meloni:
Shirui Lily silk stole: The Shirui Lily silk stole has been inspired by the misty heights of Shirui Kashong Peak in Manipur. It derives its name from the rare Shirui Lily, a delicate flower with pale pinkish-white petals that blooms nowhere else in the world. For the Tangkhul Naga community of Manipur, the flower symbolizes purity, identity, and cultural pride. The stole therefore carries not only the beauty of Himalayan craftsmanship, but also the spirit of indigenous tradition and folklore.
Lily also holds a cultural resonance in Italy, where it has been symbolizing purity, grace, and artistic refinement. It appears frequently in Renaissance art. Thus, the stole appears to be a symbol for cultural connection between India and Italy.
Muga silk stole: The fabric, ‘Muga silk,’ is a rare and prestigious textile from the Brahmaputra valley. Known for its golden shade and elegance, this exquisite silk is produced without artificial dyes. It is renowned as one of the world’s strongest natural fibers. It is prized for its remarkable durability and longevity. It often lasts for generations. Its natural luster enhances with time, besides being a guarantee of comfort and versatility. Italy’s celebrated tradition of luxury textiles and timeless design finds a natural resonance in the elegance of Assam’s ‘Muga silk.’
PM Modi reached New Delhi on Thursday after the completion of his five country tour.
