India's art and craft offerings to Central Asian heads of state

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bishkek for the SCO 26th meeting turned into a cultural exchange, as he bestowed a series of Indian heritage items on Kyrgyz and Uzbek leaders.

A ten‑volume English translation of the Mahabharata, prepared by economist Bibek Debroy, was presented to the Kyrgyz president, drawing a parallel between India’s epic narrative and Kyrgyzstan’s "Manas" tale.

The president also received a traditional Ladakhi "tsug‑dul" wool blanket, noted for its bright geometric and floral designs, echoing the pastoral customs of Kyrgyz highlands.

Kyrgyzstan’s prime minister was given a pair of Indian "dokra" metal musicians’ instruments, produced through the ancient lost‑wax casting technique, underscoring the shared folk music culture.

From India, the Uzbek president got a sandalwood santur, a stringed instrument that aligns closely with Uzbekistan’s "chang", symbolising the interconnected musical histories of Jammu‑Kashmir and Central Asia.

A premium tea box from Kangra, containing first‑flush black and green teas, highlighted the fragrant, delicate profile of Himalayan tea.

An Agra‑crafted marble box with intricate inlay work was gifted to Uzbekistan’s first lady, accompanied by a Banarasi silk stole from Varanasi, representing two of India’s finest handicrafts.

The president’s daughter received a fine silver brooch featuring floral patterns and delicate latticework, showcasing the excellence of Indian jewellery artistry.

Lastly, Uzbekistan’s prime minister was presented with a decorative Agra marble plate, adorned with blue, green, and red floral motifs, reinforcing the shared artistic legacy between the two nations.