Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a handcrafted Silver Filigree Clutch Purse to Canada’s Governor General, Mary Simon, highlighting Odisha’s rich artistic legacy, during the 51st Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Kananaskis.
The purse, a product of Cuttack’s 500-year-old silver filigree tradition, is meticulously crafted by hand using delicate silver wire into lace-like patterns, reflecting Odisha’s temple-inspired artistry and enduring craftsmanship.
Additionally, PM Modi gifted a sandstone replica of the Konark Wheel to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Carved from natural sandstone, this replica of the 13th-century Sun Temple’s iconic wheel features 24 spokes symbolising time and life, adorned with intricate carvings of dancers, deities, and floral motifs, just like the original, showing the skill of Odisha’s traditional artisans.
In his third leg of the three-nation visit, PM Modi gifted a handmade Pattachitra painting, depicting Krishna’s life, to Croatian President Zoran Milanović. This traditional art form of heritage village of Raghurajpur in Puri district is known for its detailed and colourful paintings on cloth, capturing the divine essence of Lord Jagannath and the spirit of Odia culture.