Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a carefully curated selection of gifts to Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to India for the December 4–5 summit. The gifts highlighted India’s civilisational diversity, craftsmanship, and cultural richness, reflecting the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Assam Tea: A taste of India’s tea heritage
Grown in the Brahmaputra plains, the Assam Black Tea is prized for its robust malty flavour, bright liquor, and traditional processing, noted the list shared by a source. The tea was recognised with a GI tag in 2007 and is valued for its potential health benefits.
Maharashtra Handicraft: Silver horse symbolises valor
A handcrafted silver horse from Maharashtra was also presented. It symbolises dignity and valour celebrated in both Indian and Russian cultures, and reflects shared heritage and mutual respect, the note accompanying the list said. “Its poised, forward-moving stance serves as a metaphor for the enduring and ever-advancing India–Russia partnership,” it added.
Kashmiri Saffron: The ‘red gold’ of the mountains
Locally known as Kong or Zafran, Kashmiri saffron is cultivated in the highlands of the mountainous Indian region. It is prized for its rich colour, aroma, and flavour, protected by GI recognition, and renowned for its health benefits.
Bengal’s Tea Set: Tradition in silver
Not just tea leaves, but Putin also received an ornate Murshidabad silver tea set. The set has intricate engravings, reflecting the rich artistry of West Bengal and the deep cultural importance of tea in both India and Russia. It also reminds one of Prime Minister Modi’s historic rise from selling tea at a railway station to becoming the leader of the nation.
Gita Copy in Russian: Spiritual wisdom for global readers
The Srimad Bhagavad Gita, part of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, presents Lord Krishna’s guidance to Arjuna on duty, the eternal soul, and spiritual liberation. A copy in Russian was handed personally by PM Modi to President Putin. “Its timeless wisdom inspires ethical living, mind control, and inner peace, with translations making it accessible to modern readers worldwide,” the note added.
UP’s Stonework: Marble chess set blends art and elegance
A handcrafted marble chess set from Agra in Uttar Pradesh was included, blending craftsmanship with functional elegance and highlighting the region’s stone inlay heritage. “Featuring individually inlaid motifs, contrasting stone chessmen, and a chequered marble board framed by floral designs, it exemplifies North Indian artistry,” the note added. It is made with a combination of marble, wood, and semi-precious stones.
