G20 leaders presented with a gift hamper as memento of India's rich cultural tradition

In a gesture of cultural diplomacy, India presented a meticulously crafted gift hamper to G20 leaders during recently concluded summit under its presidency in New Delhi, showcasing nation's rich herit and natural treasures. This thoughtfully curated collection includes an array of handcrafted artifacts and products, each steeped in centuries-old traditions, symbolising India's cultural diversity and craftsmanship.

Among items are a Sheeshamwood Sandook with Brass Patti, exquisite Kashmiri Saffron, prized Pekoe Darjeeling and Nilgiri Teas, Araku Coffee kwn for its unique terroir, Sundarbans Multiflora Mangrove Honey, luxurious Kashmiri Pashmina shawls, and Zighrana Ittar, a fragrant masterpiece hailing from Kannauj.

G20 gift hamper shared with each of G20 leaders serve as a poignant representation of India's herit and artistry, fostering cultural connections among world leaders.

Here's a closer look at contents of hamper:

Treasured Traditions: Sheeshamwood Sandook with Brass Patti

At heart of this gift hamper lies a true masterpiece of craftsmanship - Sheeshamwood Sandook with Brass Patti. term "Sandook" originates from Hindi and means "treasure chest." Historically, it has been a symbol of wealth and opulence in Indian culture. This particular Sandook has been meticulously handcrafted using Sheesham wood, also kwn as Indian Rosewood, prized for its durability, distinctive grain patterns, and rich color.

(Im: Republic)

Artistic Embellishments: What makes this Sandook truly exceptional is delicate brass patti (strip) that has been etched and embedded onto wooden surface. craftsmanship displayed in this exquisite detail transforms it into a visual delight and a tactile marvel. Beyond its aestic appeal, this Sandook serves a functional purpose as well - it can be used to store precious treasures, making it both a work of art and a practical container.

Red Gold: Saffron from Kashmir

Among treasures of this hamper is "Red Gold" - Saffron from Kashmir. Kwn as "Zafran" in Persian and "Kesar" in Hindi, saffron is rewned as one of world's most exotic and expensive spices, valued for its culinary and medicinal properties.

(Im: Republic)

Rare and Labor-Intensive: Saffron is derived from stigma of Saffron Crocus flower, and each strand of saffron contains concentrated essence of sun-soaked days and cool nights. Cultivating saffron is an extremely labor-intensive process, requiring delicate hand-harvesting of thousands of flowers just to produce a mere ounce of spice.

Exceptional Kashmiri Saffron: saffron included in this hamper is of exceptional quality, hailing from Kashmir. This region's crisp air, abundant sunlight, and well-drained soil result in saffron with a higher concentration of essential oils. This Kashmiri Saffron boasts an intense aromatic profile, vibrant color, and unmatched potency. Beyond its culinary value, saffron is kwn for its rich antioxidant content and numerous health benefits.

Champagne of Teas: Pekoe Darjeeling and Nilgiri Tea

Delving into world of exquisite teas, this gift hamper features two distinguished gems from India's tea tapestry - Pekoe Darjeeling and Nilgiri Tea. se teas exemplify delicate art of tea cultivation and infusion.

(Im: Republic)

Darjeeling Tea: Widely regarded as most valued tea in world, Darjeeling tea is crafted from tender tea shoots handpicked from shrubs located on misty hills of West Bengal, situated at elevations ranging from 3000 to 5000 feet. se unique growing conditions, along with distinctive character of soil, impart an exceptional aroma and invigorating flavor to tea.

Nilgiri Tea: Hailing from spectacular Nilgiri mountain range in South Bharat (India), Nilgiri Tea is cultivated amidst lush terrain at elevations ranging from 1000 to 3000 feet. This tea is kwn for its mild yet bright and brisk liquor, along with its clean and refreshing flavor. It is often preferred for making lemon or iced tea.

A cup beyond compare: Araku Coffee

hamper also contains Araku Coffee, a coffee like or. It proudly holds title of being world's first terroir-mapped coffee, cultivated on organic plantations in picturesque Araku Valley of Andhra Pradesh.

(Im: Republic)

Natural and Sustainable: What sets Araku Coffee apart is its organic cultivation process. coffee plants are nurtured by valley's farmers in complete harmony with nature, without use of machines or chemicals. This sustainable approach ensures that coffee is t only organic but also reflects essence of valley's rich soil and temperate climate.

Pure Arabica Delight: Araku Coffee is made from pure Arabica beans, kwn for ir unique aromatic profile. coffee is celebrated for its smooth texture and a symphony of flavors that create a well-balanced cup of coffee, making it a true treat for coffee conisseurs.

Wealth from wilderness: Sundarbans Multiflora Mangrove Honey

Sundarbans Multiflora Mangrove Honey adds ar layer of natural wonder to this gift hamper. Sundarbans is world's largest mangrove forest, situated at delta formed by confluence of Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers in Bay of Bengal.

(Im: Republic)

Harvesting Tradition: Before practice of beehive farming, people of Sundarbans used to hunt honeycombs in wilderness. This tradition of beehive hunting continues among locals. honey derived from this region is truly unique, mirroring biodiversity of area.

Flavour Profile: Sundarbans Multiflora Mangrove Honey blends nectar of various mangrove flowers, such as Khalisha, Bani, and Garan, resulting in a harmonious combination of sweet and earthy tes. This honey is less viscous than or types and is 100% natural and pure. Additionally, it is rich in flavoids, offering valuable health benefits.

texture of rare luxury: Kashmiri Pashmina

Among treasures within this hamper is Kashmiri Pashmina shawl, a textile steeped in history and craftsmanship. term "Pashmina" originates from Persian word "Pashm," meaning wool, but in Kashmiri, it refers specifically to raw, unspun wool of Changthangi goat.

(Im: Republic)

Unique Origins: Changthangi goat is found only at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level. wool from se goats is collected through combing, t shearing, and is n hand-spun, woven, and intricately embroidered by skilled artisans using -old techniques.

Symbol of Elegance: In ancient courts, Pashmina was a symbol of rank and bility, and it played an integral role in horing individuals. Each piece of clothing made from Pashmina represents a rare amalgamation of craftsmanship, exclusivity, legend, and style.

A fragrant story: Zighrana Ittar

Zighrana Ittar is a fragrant masterpiece originating from Kannauj, a city located in Uttar Pradesh. term "Ittar" translates to "perfume" and refers to essential oils derived from botanical sources. Ittar represents a centuries-old tradition of crafting exquisite perfumes.

(Im: Republic)

Time-Houred Craft: creation of Ittar involves skillful distillation using a method passed down through generations. Master artisans carefully gar rare blossoms such as jasmine and roses at dawn, when ir fragrance is most potent.

Natural and Unique: Through meticulous hydro-distillation, essential oils are extracted and matured over time, allowing fragrance tes to harmonise and deepen. Zighrana Ittar is a fragrant symphony that resonates with rich herit of Kannauj. Some niche and artisanal perfumes also incorporate Ittar into ir creations for its unique and natural scent profile.

Zighrana Ittar transcends time, evoking ims of ancient bazaars and royal courts where its scent once graced air.

(Im: Republic)

This G20 gift hamper serves as a profound representation of India's cultural herit, exceptional craftsmanship, and incredible diversity of its natural resources. Each item within hamper carries a unique story and embodies essence of India's traditions and natural wonders. It is a thoughtful and culturally rich gift extended to G20 leaders, providing m with a glimpse into beauty and richness of Indian culture and herit.