New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s carefully curated selection of presents for Russian President Vladimir Putin during his December 4–5 summit visit to India showcased the country’s remarkable diversity and deep-rooted civilisational heritage. Modi’s gifts to Putin spanned multiple regions of India, from the Kashmir valley to Bengal’s artistic traditions, each item carrying profound symbolic meaning and representing centuries of craftsmanship and cultural significance.
Kashmiri Saffron: The Red Gold from the Himalayas
Among the most precious items in Modi’s gifts to Putin was Kashmiri saffron, locally known as Kong or zafran. This prized spice is cultivated in the highlands of the mountainous Kashmir region and is renowned worldwide for its rich colour, distinctive aroma, and exceptional flavour. Protected by Geographical Indication (GI) recognition, Kashmiri saffron represents one of India’s most valuable agricultural treasures.
Often referred to as “red gold” due to its immense value and rarity, this saffron is celebrated not only for its culinary applications but also for its numerous health benefits. The inclusion of this precious gift underscored the premium nature of India-Russia relations and the desire to share India’s finest produce with a valued partner.
Assam Black Tea: A Taste of the Brahmaputra Plains
Modi’s gifts to Putin included premium Assam Black Tea, grown in the fertile plains of the Brahmaputra River. This tea variety is internationally prized for its robust malty flavour, bright liquor, and traditional processing methods that have been perfected over generations. The Assam tea received its GI tag in 2007, certifying its unique regional characteristics and quality.
Beyond its distinctive taste profile, Assam tea is also valued for its potential health benefits, making it both a cultural ambassador and a wellness product. This gift represented the northeastern region of India and highlighted the country’s position as one of the world’s leading tea producers.
West Bengal’s Ornate Silver Tea Set
Complementing the Assam tea, Modi’s gifts to Putin featured an exquisite Murshidabad silver tea set from West Bengal. This ornate set showcases intricate engravings that reflect the rich artistry and craftsmanship traditions of the region. The tea set carries multiple layers of symbolism, acknowledging the deep cultural importance of tea in both Indian and Russian societies.
Interestingly, the tea set also serves as a subtle reminder of Prime Minister Modi’s personal journey—from his humble beginnings selling tea at a railway station to becoming the leader of the world’s largest democracy. This gift beautifully merged personal narrative with national pride and bilateral friendship.
Maharashtra’s Handcrafted Silver Horse
A stunning handcrafted silver horse from Maharashtra featured prominently in Modi’s gifts to Putin. This exquisite piece symbolizes dignity and valour, qualities celebrated in both Indian and Russian cultures. The accompanying note explained that the artwork reflects shared heritage and mutual respect between the two nations.
The horse’s poised, forward-moving stance serves as a powerful metaphor for the enduring and ever-advancing India-Russia partnership. This gift encapsulated the dynamic nature of bilateral relations and the shared commitment to progress and cooperation.
The Bhagavad Gita in Russian: Spiritual Wisdom Transcending Borders
Perhaps the most personally significant among Modi’s gifts to Putin was a special copy of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita translated into Russian. Prime Minister Modi personally handed this sacred text to President Putin, emphasizing its importance in the gift collection. The Bhagavad Gita, part of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, contains Lord Krishna’s guidance to Arjuna on fundamental concepts of duty, the eternal soul, and spiritual liberation.
The accompanying note highlighted that the Gita’s timeless wisdom inspires ethical living, mind control, and inner peace. By providing a Russian-language translation, the gift ensured accessibility and demonstrated respect for Putin’s ability to engage with the text in his native language. This gesture reflected the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of India-Russia relations.
Uttar Pradesh’s Marble Chess Set from Agra
Modi’s gifts to Putin also included a handcrafted marble chess set from Agra in Uttar Pradesh, blending exceptional craftsmanship with functional elegance. This masterpiece highlights the region’s renowned stone inlay heritage, a tradition that has flourished for centuries in the city famous for the Taj Mahal.
The chess set features individually inlaid motifs, contrasting stone chessmen, and a chequered marble board framed by elaborate floral designs. Crafted from a combination of marble, wood, and semi-precious stones, it exemplifies North Indian artistry at its finest. The choice of a chess set—a game of strategy and intellect—symbolically represents the strategic nature of India-Russia diplomatic relations.
Diplomatic Significance of Cultural Gifts
Modi’s gifts to Putin were not merely ceremonial items but carefully selected cultural ambassadors representing India’s geographical diversity, artistic traditions, and civilisational depth. Each gift told a story—of regional craftsmanship, agricultural excellence, spiritual wisdom, and shared values. Together, they painted a comprehensive picture of India’s multifaceted identity.
The thoughtful curation of Modi’s gifts to Putin demonstrated India’s soft power diplomacy, using cultural heritage to strengthen bilateral ties and create lasting impressions that transcend formal political discourse.
