Moradabad, June 30 (IANS) The selection of a handcrafted brass tortoise from Moradabad by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a state gift for the President of Seychelles Patrick Herminie has brought immense pride to the city’s artisan community.

The gesture has once again highlighted Moradabad’s globally acclaimed brass craftsmanship and reinforced the importance of India’s traditional handicrafts on the international stage.

Reacting to the development, Padma Shri awardee and master artisan Chiranji Lal Yadav said it was a matter of great honour for the artisans of Moradabad.

“It is highly appreciable that the Prime Minister has given a unique identity to our handicrafts. Through such thoughtful gifts, artisans from different parts of the country receive global recognition. Now, people across the world will also know about Moradabad’s rich brass art,” he added.

Prime Minister Modi presented the Moradabadi brass tortoise to the President of Seychelles as a symbol of India’s cultural heritage.

Moradabad, widely known as India’s “Brass City”, is internationally renowned for its exquisite brass handicrafts, exported to markets across the globe.

Yadav praised the Prime Minister’s consistent practice of selecting handcrafted products made by local artisans as official gifts for world leaders.

“Whether it is Kashmiri shawls, Banarasi handicrafts or brass items from Moradabad, the Prime Minister always chooses products that represent India’s rich artistic traditions. This not only showcases our heritage but also provides recognition to the artisans behind these masterpieces,” he said.

The 74-year-old artisan, who was conferred the Padma Shri Award in the field of Arts, also credited the Union government’s encouragement of traditional crafts for bringing national recognition to artisans like him.

Speaking about the brass tortoise, he said it symbolises Goddess Lakshmi, representing prosperity, wealth and good fortune, making it a meaningful diplomatic gift.

Chiranji Lal Yadav is celebrated for preserving the centuries-old craft of intricate brass engraving. His finely detailed work on vases, trays, plates, tea coasters and decorative figures, featuring floral patterns, animals and traditional Indian motifs, has earned admiration in both domestic and international markets.

–IANS

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