Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Russian President Vladimir Putin a curated selection of Indian artisanal and cultural treasures during the latter’s two-day visit including fine Assam Black Tea, an ornate Murshidabad silver tea set, a handcrafted silver horse from Maharashtra, a marble chess set from Agra, premium Kashmiri saffron and a Russian-translated edition of the
Srimad Bhagavad Gita. Each gift highlighted India’s diverse craftsmanship, regional heritage and symbolic messaging, ranging from shared tea traditions and cultural artistry to themes of friendship valour and spiritual wisdom.Fine Assam Black Tea
* Assam Black Tea, grown in the fertile Brahmaputra plains, is prized for its robust malty flavour, bright liquor, and traditional processing using the assamica variety.
* Recognised with a GI tag in 2007, it represents a rich heritage shaped by land, climate, and craft.
* Beyond its cultural legacy, it is also valued for potential health benefits, making each cup both comforting and wholesome.
Ornate silver tea set
* The ornate Murshidabad silver tea set, crafted with intricate engravings, reflects the rich artistry of West Bengal and the deep cultural importance of tea in both India and Russia.
* In both societies, tea is a symbol of warmth, connection, and shared stories.
* Gifted with affection, the set celebrates the enduring India–Russia friendship and the timeless ritual of tea.
Silver Horse
* The handcrafted silver horse from Maharashtra, adorned with intricate detailing, showcases the finesse of India’s metal craft traditions.
* Symbolising dignity and valour celebrated in both Indian and Russian cultures, it reflects shared heritage and mutual respect.
* Its poised, forward-moving stance serves as a metaphor for the enduring and ever-advancing India–Russia partnership.
Marble chess set
* This handcrafted marble chess set from Agra blends fine craftsmanship with functional elegance, highlighting the region’s stone inlay heritage under the ODOP initiative.
* Featuring individually inlaid motifs, contrasting stone chessmen, and a chequered marble board framed by floral designs, it exemplifies North Indian artistry.
* The combination of marble, wood, and semi-precious stones creates a visually striking and tactilely pleasing décor and game piece.
Kashmiri Saffron
* Kashmiri Saffron, locally known as Kong or Zaffran, cultivated in the highlands of Kashmir, is prized for its rich color, aroma, and flavor, and holds deep cultural and culinary significance.
* Protected by GI and ODOP recognition, it represents heritage, traditional hand-harvesting, and economic value for local farmers.
* Renowned for its health benefits, this “red gold” embodies a blend of nature, tradition, and craftsmanship.
Srimad Bhagavad Gita (in Russian)
* The Srimad Bhagavad Gita, part of the Mahabharata, presents Krishna’s guidance to Arjuna on duty, the eternal soul, and spiritual liberation.
* Its timeless wisdom inspires ethical living, mind control, and inner peace, with translations making it accessible to modern readers worldwide.
