Paris: Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented French President Emmanuel Macron with a Dokra artwork featuring musicians adorned with studded stonework.
Dokra art, an ancient metal-casting tradition from Chhattisgarh, is renowned for its intricate craftsmanship using the lost-wax technique. Deeply rooted in the region’s tribal heritage, this particular piece depicts traditional musicians in expressive poses, emphasizing the cultural importance of music.
Crafted from brass and copper, the artwork is further enhanced with lapis lazuli and coral, adding contrast and depth. The labor-intensive casting process highlights the artisans’ remarkable skill and dedication. More than just a decorative piece, the Dokra artwork embodies India’s rich cultural legacy, celebrating tribal traditions and artistic mastery.
PM Modi was on a three-day visit to France from February 10-12. In a special gesture, French President Macron personally saw off PM Modi at the airport, with the two leaders exchanging a warm hug before his departure. Modi then left Marseille for Washington, DC, for the second leg of his two-nation visit.
During his stay in France, PM Modi participated in several engagements spanning Artificial Intelligence (AI), commerce, energy, and cultural collaborations. He co-chaired the AI Action Summit, which brought together world leaders and global tech CEOs.
In his meeting with President Macron, both leaders assessed the progress of the 2047 Horizon Roadmap, aimed at strengthening the India-France strategic partnership. They traveled to Marseille to inaugurate the first Indian Consulate in France and visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, where India is one of the consortium’s partner nations alongside France.
Additionally, PM Modi paid homage to Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World Wars I and II at the Mazargues War Cemetery. He and President Macron also toured the control room of CMA-CGM, a leading global player in shipping and logistics.
Sharing his experience on X, PM Modi posted: “Strengthening Maritime Ties in Marseille! President @EmmanuelMacron and I visited the control room of CMA-CGM, a global leader in shipping and logistics. As India expands its maritime and trade networks, collaborations with industry leaders will play a crucial role in boosting connectivity, supply chains and economic growth. We are working towards enhancing India-France cooperation in logistics, sustainability and global trade, reinforcing our shared vision for a better maritime future.”
Following his engagements in France, PM Modi is now traveling to the US. This marks his first visit to the US since the start of President Donald Trump’s second term in office.
