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India is known for its rich heritage and traditional crafts, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently showcased this on a global stage. During his visit to Mauritius, he presented a remarkable gift to the country’s President, Dharambeer Gokhiil—Kashi’s GI-tagged metal pot filled with sacred Sangam water from Prayagraj. This gift, carrying deep cultural and spiritual significance, highlights India’s craftsmanship and the importance of GI tags in preserving traditional arts.
The special metal pot gifted by PM Modi is not just an ordinary vessel. It is Kashi’s GI-tagged metal pot, made using the Banaras Metal Casting Craft, a centuries-old skill from Varanasi. A GI (Geographical Indication) tag is a certification given to products that originate from a specific region and possess unique qualities or craftsmanship related to that place.
Kashi’s GI-tagged metal pot is crafted by skilled artisans of the Kasera community in areas such as Kashipura, Baluagali, and Vindhyachal Gali. These pots, made of brass with a central band of soldered copper, are known for their durability, intricate patterns, and cultural value.
PM Modi’s gift was not just about craftsmanship but also about spiritual significance. The pot contained sacred Sangam water from Prayagraj, the holy confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. In Sanatan Dharma, storing sacred water in a brass or copper vessel is considered auspicious as these metals help retain the water’s purity and spiritual essence. This is why Kashi’s GI-tagged metal pot was the perfect choice for carrying the sacred water.
The artisans of Varanasi use traditional techniques like repoussé and sand casting to create these beautiful pots. The craft is part of a long tradition of making religious utensils, puja vessels, and decorative items.
Padma Shri awardee Rajani Kant, an expert in GI products, explained that the Ganga-Jamuni lota—a term used for such pots—is commonly used in religious rituals. The Kasera community has preserved this art for generations, ensuring that the authenticity and quality remain intact.
India has many unique products, but without proper recognition, these crafts could be lost. A GI tag helps protect traditional craftsmanship and provides economic benefits to artisans. Rajani Kant, known as the “GI Man of India,” has helped certify 155 products across 21 states and union territories, ensuring that India’s heritage is preserved.
Apart from Kashi’s GI-tagged metal pot, PM Modi also gifted:
When leaders exchange gifts, it is not just about diplomacy but also about sharing culture and heritage. PM Modi’s choice to gift Kashi’s GI-tagged metal pot to Mauritius sends a strong message about India’s dedication to preserving and promoting its traditional crafts. It also creates awareness about the importance of GI tags in protecting the identity of local artisans.
PM Modi’s gift of Kashi’s GI-tagged metal pot to the Mauritian President is more than just a token of goodwill—it is a symbol of India’s rich cultural history. By supporting GI-tagged products, we ensure that our traditional arts and the hardworking artisans behind them continue to thrive.
Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor
Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.
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