Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his trip to New Zealand, presented a Dhokra tree of life sculpture from Bastar and an Uttarakhandi Cap to his counterpart Christopher Luxon. The Pahari Cap symbolizes Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage and is handcrafted from high-quality wool, featuring traditional textile artistry in a vibrant woven band. It holds significance during various occasions like festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies, embodying pride, dignity, and respect.
The Uttarakhandi Cap not only represents the region’s identity but also supports local artisans and showcases India’s diverse cultural heritage for future generations. Additionally, PM Modi gifted a Dhokra tree of life sculpture from Bastar, crafted using the ancient Dhokra metal craft tradition. This unique piece, made through the lost-wax casting technique, symbolizes interconnectedness, renewal, prosperity, and harmony between humanity and nature.
Moreover, the sculpture reflects the Indian concept of Kalpavriksha and resonates with the Maori belief of Whakapapa. PM Modi also presented a Hockey Stick signed by the Indian Women’s Hockey Team Champions of the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup to Luxon. This stick, signed by every team member, commemorates their historic victory and signifies perseverance, teamwork, and excellence in Indian hockey.
The hockey stick stands as a tribute to India’s proud hockey legacy, showcasing technical skill, unity, and national pride. Lastly, PM Modi gifted a Zari Zardozi Wall Hanging from Lucknow to New Zealand’s Leader of the Opposition, Chris Hipkins. This wall hanging exemplifies India’s hand embroidery tradition, featuring intricate Zardozi work with metallic threads, sequins, beads, and decorative elements creating elegant floral designs.
By preserving this centuries-old embroidery tradition, the wall hanging supports skilled craftspeople in Lucknow, showcasing India’s artisanal heritage and the enduring excellence of traditional craftsmanship.
