PM Modi gifts ‘Delhi-Delaware’ silver train model to President Biden, ‘Pashmina Shawl’ to First Lady Jill Biden

Wilmington (Delaware), September 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden with gifts reflecting India’s rich cultural heritage.

President Biden received an antique silver hand-engraved train model with ‘Delhi-Delaware’ inscribed on the sides of the main carriage. First Lady Jill Biden was gifted a Pashmina Shawl in an intricately designed Papier Mache Box.

Notably, the vintage silver hand-engraved train model is a rare and extraordinary piece and masterfully crafted by artisans from Maharashtra – renowned for its rich heritage in silver craftsmanship. Made of 92.5 per cent silver, the model showcases the pinnacle of Indian metalworking artistry, with elaborate details achieved through traditional techniques such as engraving, repousse (hammering from the reverse to create raised designs), and intricate filigree work.

The model was customized by inscribing “DELHI – DELAWARE” on the sides of the main carriage and “INDIAN RAILWAYS” on the sides of the engine in English and Hindi based on the standard format used on passenger trains in India.

PM Modi also presented the First Lady Jill Biden with a Pashmina shawl in a Papier Mache Box. The shawl is from the Jammu and Kashmirmade by skilled artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations, using natural dyes derived from plants and minerals.

Pashmina shawls traditionally come packed in papier mache boxes from Jammu and Kashmir, which are renowned for their exquisite beauty and craftsmanship. These boxes are handmade using a mixture of paper pulp, glue, and other natural materials. Each box is a unique work of art, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. These boxes are not only functional but also serve as decorative items in their own right.

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday interacted with the members of the Indian diaspora after he arrived at Hotel Lotte Palace in New York.

In a post on X, PM Modi shared pictures of his meeting with members of the Indian diaspora and wrote, “After programmes in Delaware, landed in New York. Eager to be among the diaspora at the community programme in the city and to take part in other programmes.”