What PM Modi gifted Macron and Slovakia's leaders — and the stories behind each one

Every handshake on the world stage comes with a story — and PM Modi's recent diplomatic gifts tell one rooted in Indian craft. From handwoven silk to centuries-old jewellery techniques, here's what travelled across borders this time.

PM Modi gifted Brigitte Macron, wife of French President Emmanuel Macron, a Pochampally Silk Stole — a handwoven textile from Telangana crafted using the traditional Ikat resist-dyeing technique, known for its intricate geometric and floral patterns.

For French President Emmanuel Macron, the gift was a traditional Kalamkari Mahabharata painting from Andhra Pradesh — crafted over six months using ancient pen-drawing techniques passed down through generations of artisans.

PM Modi presented Slovakia's President Peter Pellegrini with Handcrafted Thewa Motif Cufflinks — a traditional jewellery craft from Pratapgarh featuring finely engraved gold sheets fused onto coloured glass, inspired by nature and symbolism.

The rare Thewa technique used in the cufflinks is one of India's most intricate jewellery crafts, producing elegant, nature-inspired designs that have made Pratapgarh's artisans renowned across generations.

For Slovakia's Speaker Richard Raši, PM Modi chose something edible — Thekua, a traditional sweet snack from Bihar and Jharkhand made with wheat flour, jaggery or sugar, fennel seeds, and ghee.

Thekua is especially prepared during festivals, most notably Chhath Puja. Known for its simple ingredients, long shelf life, and homemade taste, it carries the weight of regional culinary heritage in every bite.

From Telangana's looms to Bihar's kitchens, each gift PM Modi carried abroad was a deliberate choice — showcasing India's textile, craft, and culinary heritage to the highest offices in France and Slovakia.