GUWAHATI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a traditional Muga silk stole from Assam to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during his visit to Rome, showcasing one of India’s most celebrated handloom traditions on the global stage.
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Muga silk, often referred to as the “Golden Silk” of Assam, is a rare and prestigious textile indigenous to the Brahmaputra Valley in Northeast India. Known for its natural golden sheen and durability, the silk is produced without artificial dyes and is regarded as one of the world’s strongest natural fibres.
The handcrafted textile is valued for its longevity, with its natural lustre said to deepen over time. Muga silk is also recognised for its moisture-absorbing and UV-resistant properties, making it both functional and elegant.
The gifting of the Assamese stole was seen as a symbolic cultural gesture highlighting India’s rich textile heritage and Assam’s globally recognised weaving tradition.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Italy marked the final leg of his five-nation official tour. During the visit, India and Italy upgraded their bilateral ties to a “special strategic partnership” following wide-ranging talks between Modi and Meloni held on Wednesday, May 20.
The two countries also finalised a defence industrial roadmap and agreed to work towards expanding annual bilateral trade to €20 billion by 2029 amid growing geopolitical and economic challenges globally.