PM Modi gifted a signed Indian Women’s Hockey Team stick and a Pahadi cap to New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon in Auckland, as both nations elevated ti…
1/7DIPLOMATIC GIFTS| Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented gifts to leaders during his three-nation visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. The gifts highlighted India’s textiles, tribal crafts, folk paintings and sporting memorabilia. In New Zealand, Modi gave symbolic gifts to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, reflecting India’s culture and sporting achievements. The presentations came amid talks to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations.
2/7NZ GIFTS | Modi presented two gifts to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The first was a hockey stick signed by the entire Indian Women’s Hockey Team, commemorating their win at the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup held in New Zealand. The second was a traditional Uttarakhandi Cap, also called the Pahadi Cap, representing the Himalayan region’s cultural heritage.
3/7HOCKEY TRIBUTE | The signed hockey stick honours the Indian Women’s Hockey Team’s championship victory. Each signature represents the dedication of players who achieved the landmark win, inspiring young women to pursue sporting careers. Beyond sporting equipment, the stick symbolises perseverance, teamwork and excellence in Indian hockey. It stands as a tribute to India’s sporting achievement on the global stage.
4/7PAHADI CAP | The Uttarakhandi Cap is handcrafted from high-quality wool and features a woven band showcasing traditional textile artistry. Worn during festivals, weddings and religious ceremonies, the cap represents pride, hospitality and respect. It reflects harmony between local traditions and nature. The gift preserves indigenous weaving techniques and supports artisans who carry forward Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage.
5/7LUCKNOW CRAFT | Modi also gifted a Zari Zardozi Wall Hanging from Lucknow to the Leader of the Opposition in New Zealand. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, the piece features floral and ornamental designs made with metallic threads, sequins and beads. The symmetrical patterns symbolise prosperity and harmony. The gift preserves the centuries-old Zardozi embroidery tradition and supports craftsmen’s livelihoods.
6/7INDONESIA GIFT | During his visit to Indonesia, Modi presented an Odisha Ikat to Parliament Speaker Puan Maharani. Known locally as Bandha, the handloom silk textile is celebrated for its tie-and-dye technique and vibrant patterns. Woven in centres such as Sambalpur, Nuapatna and Bargarh, the fabric features identical designs on both sides and distinctive curvilinear motifs, reflecting Odisha’s cultural identity.
7/7AUSTRALIA GIFTS | In Australia, Modi presented multiple gifts. A Madhubani Painting went to the Governor-General of Victoria, a wool embroidered stole to Anthony Albanese’s spouse, and a Tribal Dhokra Boat Sculpture and coffee box to Prime Minister Albanese. A wooden hand-carved elephant went to the Leader of the Opposition, while a marble inlay work box was given to the Governor-General of Australia.
