Over the weekend, as G20 leaders gathered in New Delhi for their annual summit, they were greeted with thoughtful gift hampers that celebrated Indian culture and biodiversity. These hampers contained a selection of items that reflect the rich traditions and unique offerings of India.
The Symbolic Rosewood Chest:
At the heart of the gift hamper was a beautifully crafted Indian rosewood chest. This chest, adorned with an embedded brass strip, is not just a work of art but also a symbol of Indian craftsmanship. It holds a special place in Indian cultural and folk legends.
The Precious Kashmiri Saffron:
One of the highlights of the hamper was Kashmiri saffron, often referred to as “red gold.” This spice is renowned worldwide for its culinary and medicinal value, making it a true gem of Indian cuisine.
Aromatic Teas and Coffee:
The hamper also featured some of India’s finest teas and coffee. Pekoe Darjeeling tea, grown in the hills of West Bengal, and Nilgiri tea from the mountains of South India, offered a taste of India’s diverse tea culture. Araku Coffee, known for being the world’s first terroir-mapped coffee, was a delightful addition. It’s cultivated in Andhra Pradesh using organic and sustainable methods, ensuring a unique and eco-friendly coffee experience.
Sundarbans Honey:
Sourced from the world’s largest mangrove forest in the Sundarbans, this honey is a reflection of the rich biodiversity of the area. It blends nectar from mangrove flowers like Khalisha, Bani, and Garan, resulting in a distinct and flavorful honey. Sundarbans honey is not only delicious but also rich in flavonoids.
The Luxurious Pashmina Shawl:
The gift hamper also included a Kashmiri pashmina shawl, a masterpiece made from the wool of the unique Cashmere goat. These goats are found at staggering altitudes of 14,000 feet above sea level. Skilled artisans hand-spin, weave, and embroider delicate fibers to create these shawls, which were once symbols of rank and nobility, signifying honor.
Zighrana Ittar Perfume:
From Kannauj in Uttar Pradesh, the hamper showcased Zighrana Ittar, a perfume crafted using a centuries-old tradition. Artisans gather rare blossoms of jasmine and roses at dawn when their fragrance is most potent, then employ hydro-distillation to create this exquisite perfume.
These gift hampers were a beautiful representation of Indian culture, craftsmanship, and biodiversity. They provided G20 leaders with a glimpse into the rich traditions and unique offerings of India, marking the culmination of India’s year-long presidency of the G20 and creating memorable moments during this significant summit.
