PM Modi Showcases India’s Heritage With Unique Gifts to UAE President

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday presented a range of culturally significant gifts to United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during his visit to Abu Dhabi, highlighting India’s traditional crafts, agricultural heritage, and regional specialties as part of diplomatic engagement between the two nations. The gifts were presented as part of a broader five-nation visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and cultural diplomacy.

Among the key offerings were GI-tagged Kesar mangoes, often referred to as the “Queen of Mangoes,” sourced from Gujarat’s Junagadh region. The fruit is known for its saffron-coloured pulp, rich aroma, and smooth texture, and is widely associated with seasonal festivities and traditional Gujarati hospitality. Alongside this, Modi also presented Meghalaya pineapples, another GI-tagged produce known for their natural sweetness, high nutritional value, and cultivation in the hilly terrains of Northeast India.

The Prime Minister also gifted a rare Rogan painting featuring the “Tree of Life” motif from the Kutch region of Gujarat. The intricate textile art form is created using oil-based paints and a metal rod technique, reflecting centuries-old craftsmanship passed down through generations. The symbolic Tree of Life design represents harmony, continuity, and interconnectedness, themes often highlighted in India’s cultural diplomacy narratives.

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In another set of presentations, Modi gifted a Karimnagar filigree silver box, Maheshwari silk fabric, and Chak Hao black rice to the UAE President’s family. The filigree box, crafted in Telangana, showcases fine silverwork known for its detailed repoussé technique and traditional motifs. Maheshwari silk, originating from Madhya Pradesh’s Maheshwar region, is valued for its lightweight texture and reversible border designs, while Chak Hao rice from Manipur is a nutrient-rich black rice variety historically associated with royal cuisine.

Additionally, the Prime Minister presented Mithila makhana from Bihar and a ceremonial dagger featuring Koftgari craftsmanship to the UAE Crown Prince Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan. Mithila makhana, or fox nuts, is a GI-tagged superfood known for its high protein and antioxidant content, while the Koftgari dagger reflects Rajasthan’s historic metal inlay tradition combining artistry with martial symbolism. Officials said the gifts collectively represent India’s regional diversity and artisanal heritage.

The exchange of gifts was seen as part of ongoing efforts to deepen India–UAE relations, combining cultural symbolism with diplomatic outreach. The presentation highlighted traditional crafts and agricultural products from across Indian states, reinforcing themes of shared heritage, sustainability, and people-to-people connections between the two countries.

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