Ramen bowls, pashmina shawl and silver chopsticks: A look at what PM Modi gifted to his Japanese counterpart

PM Modi's gifts to Japanese PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a visit to Japan, on Saturday gifted Ramen bowls with silver chopsticks to his Japanese counterpart, Shigeru Ishiba. PM Modi also gifted a pashmina shawl wrapped in a papier-mache box to Ishiba's spouse.

ANI reported that the ramen bowl set that was gifted to the Japanese PM is an amalgamation of Indian artistry and Japanese culinary design and features a large brown moonstone bowl accompanied by four smaller ones and silver chopsticks. Reports said that the bowl set was inspired by Japan's donburi and soba rituals.

The moonstone on the bowl set has been sourced from Andhra Pradesh and is a symbol of love, protection as well as balance. Meanwhile, the base of the main bowl has been made of Makrana marble and has been inlaid with semi-precious stones in the traditional parchin kari style of Rajasthan.

The pashmina shawl that PM Modi gifted to the Japanese PM's spouse, Yoshiko Nakamura, has been made from the fine wool of the Changthangi goat in Ladakh. This wool holds worldwide value for being light, soft, and warm. The shawl has been handwoven by Kashmiri artisans and carries a centuries-old tradition once cherished by royalty, ANI stated.

With an ivory base, the shawl has delicate floral and paisley patterns that have been done in rust, red and pink - thus showcasing intricate Karsmiri craftsmanship and designs. The papier-mache box that it was gifted in was decorated with floral and bird motifs and was hand-painted. Both the shawl and the box represent the rich Kashmiri culture.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his two-day visit to Japan on Saturday, describing it as "productive" and highlighting the positive outcomes achieved during his engagements.

He expressed gratitude to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba for the warmth extended to him during the visit.

In a post on X, he said, "This visit to Japan will be remembered for the productive outcomes which will benefit the people of our nations. I thank PM Ishiba, the Japanese people and the Government for their warmth."

(With ANI inputs)