Araku coffee to Ikkat stoles, what the gift hampers of G20 leaders’ spouses contained

ARAKU: Araku Coffee, the world's first terroir-mapped coffee, grown on organic plantations in Andhra Pradesh's Araku Valley, was one of the presents given to heads of state and leaders representing their countries at the G20 Summit 2023 in Delhi.

The G20 Summit's special gift hampers included a curated range of handcrafted artefacts and products which spoke volumes about Bharat’s rich cultural traditions. Some of the products are the product of centuries of tradition & cherished across the world for their unparalleled workmanship and quality. These were meticulously created by the hands of Master Craftsmen. Some products are the result of the unique bio-diversity of our country.

The hamper had the following products

A cup beyond compare: Araku Coffee

Araku Coffee, the world's first terroir mapped coffee, is grown on organic plantations in the Araku Valley of Andhra Pradesh, showcasing the region's rich soil and temperate climate.

Farmers in the valley cultivate coffee plants in harmony with nature, using small farms without machines or chemicals, ensuring organic and sustainable cultivation. End users receive traditional coffee powder and beans directly from the farmer's house.

Araku Coffee, a blend of pure Arabica and a unique aromatic profile, is renowned for its smooth, well-balanced texture and symphony of flavors.

Ikkat Stole in Teak Wood Box

Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Kobita Jugnauth, the spouse of Mauritius Prime Minister, a teak wood box-shaped 'Ikkat Stole' during the G20 Summit.

This traditional mulberry silk stole was embellished with the exquisite Ikat technique and is a timeless masterpiece crafted by the artisans of Odisha. Ikat is a meticulous dyeing technique on silk or cotton, involving tying and dying specific thread sections to create a symphony of shades while leaving the tied portions untouched.

Odisha Ikat, a skill rooted in precision, has been thriving since the 12th century, using threads to create beautiful, dark fabrics with delicate designs. The stole was presented in a teak wood box, handcrafted by Gujarat artisans, showcasing the durability and strength of teak wood.

Assam Stole in Kadam Wood Box

Indonesia's Prime Minister's spouse, Iriana Joko Widodo, was presented with an 'Assam Stole' in a Kadam wood box by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 Summit.

Assam stoles, traditional clothing woven by skilled artisans using Muga silk, showcase intricate designs and motifs inspired by natural surroundings and flora and fauna, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Assamese people.

Draping an Assamese stole isn't just donning clothing; it's embracing a glorious cultural heritage and artistic legacy.

The stole was presented in a handcrafted Kadam wood box, auspicious in Indian culture and a significant part of Indian religions and mythologies. The box is a unique creation by the artisans of Karnataka.

Kanjivaram Stole in Kadam Wood Jali Box

Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Yuko Kishida, spouse of Japan's prime minister, a Kanjivaram Stole in a Kadam wood jali box at the G20 Summit.

Kanjivaram silk creations are Indian weaving masterpieces, renowned for vibrant colors, intricate designs, and unparalleled craftsmanship, originating from Kanchipuram village in Tamil Nadu.

The term 'Kanjivaram' originates from the small village of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, where the craft originated. Kanjivaram stole, crafted from mulberry silk threads by skilled weavers, is a durable, strong fabric exuding queenly elegance and sophistication.

The stole was presented in a handcrafted Kadam wood Jali box, a symbol of auspiciousness in Indian culture and a key part of Indian religions and mythologies.

The box, made using 'Jali' or lattice work, was crafted by Kerala artisans.

The texture of rare luxury: Kashmiri Pashmina

The Kashmiri Pashmina shawl, derived from the raw unspun wool of the Changthangi goat, is a unique and enchanting fabric with enchanting stories found only at a height of 14,000 feet above sea level.

The goat's undercoat is collected for wool, which is then hand-spun, weaved, and embroidered by skilled artisans, creating a timeless, elegant, and intricate shawl.

Pashmina, an ancient court garment, was a symbol of rank and nobility, playing a crucial role in honor-giving rituals.Pashmina clothing is a rare blend of craftsmanship, exclusivity, legend, and style.

Wealth from Wilderness: Sundarbans Multiflora Mangrove Honey

Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest in the Bay of Bengal delta, is home to wild honeybee colonies and a traditional beehive hunting practice among locals.

Before beehive farming, people hunted honeycombs from the wilderness, a tradition still practiced among Sundarban locals. Sundarbans honey, a rich, bio-diversity-inspired honey, blends nectar from mangrove flowers like Khalisha, Bani, and Garan, resulting in a sweet and earthy flavor.

Sundarban honey, a 100% natural and pure product, is rich in flavonoids and offers numerous health benefits.

The Champagne of Teas: Pekoe Darjeeling and Nilgiri Tea

Pekoe Darjeeling and Nilgiri Tea are two exceptional teas from Bharat's tea tapestry, showcasing the intricate art of tea cultivation and infusion. Darjeeling tea, the world's most valuable, is handpicked from shrubs in West Bengal's misty hills, resulting in a highly aromatic and invigorating cup.

Nilgiri Tea, originating from South Bharat's stunning mountain range, is known for its mild, bright, and clean flavor, making it a popular choice for lemon iced tea.

Red Gold: The Saffron from Kashmir

Saffron, the most exotic and expensive spice globally, is renowned for its exceptional culinary and medicinal value across various cultures and civilizations.

Saffron Crocus, a rare and enticing natural treasure, is cultivated through a labor-intensive process, with each strand containing the stigma, symbolizing sun-soaked days and cool nights.

Saffron cultivation is a labor-intensive process involving hand-harvesting thousands of delicate flowers with three crimson stigmas to yield a single ounce of the spice.

Kashmiri Saffron, renowned for its intense aroma, vibrant color, and potency, is a product of Kashmir's well-drained soil, abundant sunlight, and crisp air. Saffron, a luxurious and sought-after culinary spice, is rich in antioxidants and offers numerous health benefits.