PM Modi Gifts Pashmina Shawl in Papier-Mâché Box to Japanese PM’s Spouse

By A Staff Reporter

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has presented a Pashmina shawl, encased in a hand-painted papier-mâché box, to the spouse of Japan’s Prime Minister during a diplomatic exchange. The gesture carried cultural significance, showcasing India’s traditional artistry and centuries-old craftsmanship.

The Pashmina shawl, woven from the fine wool of the Changthangi goat found in Ladakh, is internationally valued for its softness, lightness, and warmth. Crafted by skilled Kashmiri artisans, the shawl reflects a weaving tradition that was once highly prized by royalty. The gifted piece features an ivory base with intricate floral and paisley patterns in shades of rust, pink, and red—motifs that are characteristic of classic Kashmiri design.

Complementing the shawl, the papier-mâché box was adorned with delicate floral and bird motifs. Papier-mâché art, long practiced in Kashmir, involves hand-painting decorative designs that add to both aesthetic appeal and cultural value.