Cultural imprint of Chhattisgarh on the world stage: Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts the Bastar Dhokra Tree of Life sculpture to New Zealand's Prime Minister

Raipur, July 13 2026 – In another significant achievement towards showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage on the global platform, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon with the world‑famous Bastar Dhokra Tree of Life metal sculpture. This diplomatic gift not only gave international recognition to the millennia‑old tribal art of Bastar but also highlighted Chhattisgarh’s cultural wealth, traditional craftsmanship and indigenous heritage on the world stage. The occasion is a matter of pride for the whole state as its tribal culture, folk traditions and traditional handicrafts now represent India’s cultural identity abroad. The selection of the Dhokra piece by the Prime Minister underscores that Chhattisgarh’s folk art has established a distinct global identity. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sahu, the state government continuously works to preserve and promote tribal culture, folk arts and traditional crafts, encouraging artists and artisans through various schemes and initiatives. As a result, heritage such as Bastar Dhokra is becoming part of diplomatic gifts, enhancing the state’s prestige. The Department of Culture, guided by Minister Rajesh Agarwal, is also constantly working to document, exhibit and popularise the state’s invaluable cultural assets, linking folk art and tribal traditions with the younger generation and seeking national and international recognition. The global appreciation of the Dhokra piece reflects the success of these efforts. Bastar Dhokra is considered one of the world’s oldest metal‑craft traditions, made using lost‑wax casting, one of the earliest metal‑casting techniques. Skilled tribal artisans hand‑craft each piece, giving each sculpture a unique texture, beauty and artistic expression. This generational tradition embodies the cultural soul and tribal worldview of Bastar. The Tree of Life sculpture gifted by the Prime Minister is not merely an artwork but a powerful symbol of Indian philosophy and coexistence with nature, conveying messages of interconnection, new life, prosperity and balance between humanity and the environment. In Indian tradition it represents the Kalpavriksha, while it also resonates with the Maori concept of Whakapapa in New Zealand, expressing deep links between life, nature and lineage. Thus the piece stands for cultural dialogue and universal human values. Bastar Dhokra is not just a handicraft but an expression of Chhattisgarh’s tribal culture, folk beliefs, respect for nature and sustainable living, strengthening artisans’ livelihoods and promoting eco‑friendly handmade products. Each artwork showcases tribal creativity, intimacy with nature and cultural continuity. The selection of this piece as an international diplomatic gift by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a significant proof of global acceptance of Chhattisgarh’s cultural strength. It will boost the morale of tribal artists, open new markets for local crafts and give Chhattisgarh’s rich arts, culture and tribal heritage a fresh identity worldwide. The Bastar Dhokra Tree of Life is therefore not only a gift but a global ambassador of Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity, tribal pride, traditional craftsmanship and India’s priceless heritage, establishing the state’s name on the international stage with greater pride.