Indian artistry meets Japanese tradition: PM Modi’s unique gift to PM Ishiba, his wife; see pics

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday presented ramen bowls and chopsticks to his Japanese counterpart Shigeru Ishiba as he concluded his two-day visit to Japan.The gift, combining Indian artistry with Japanese culinary customs, features a large brown moonstone bowl and four smaller ones, inspired by Japan’s donburi and soba rituals.The moonstone, sourced from Andhra Pradesh, glows with adularescence and symbolizes love, balance, and protection, while the base of the main bowl is Makrana marble inlaid with semi-precious stones in the traditional parchin kari style of Rajasthan.PM Modi also gifted a Pashmina shawl in papier mache box to Ishiba's spouse Yoshiko Ishiba.The Pashmina shawl is made from the fine wool of the Changthangi goat in Ladakh. It is highly valued worldwide for being light, soft, and warm.Handwoven by Kashmiri artisans, it carries a centuries-old tradition once cherished by royalty. The shawl has an ivory base with delicate floral and paisley patterns in rust, pink, and red, showing classic Kashmiri design and craftsmanship.It comes in a hand-painted papier-mâché box decorated with floral and bird motifs, adding to its beauty and cultural value. Together, the shawl and box represent Kashmir’s artistry, heritage, and timeless elegance.