PM Modi gets a slice of Kashi in Rome as Italian artist gifts Varanasi-inspired painting

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was gifted a painting of the famous ghats of Varanasi by well-known Italian artist Giampaolo Tomassetti during his visit to Rome.

Sharing the moment on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, “A glimpse of Kashi in Rome,” along with a picture with the artist. The interaction took place during his Italy visit, which is the final stop of his five-nation tour.

Tomassetti has had a long connection with Indian culture, spanning more than four decades. “His passion for Indian culture goes back over four decades,” PM Modi noted in his post.

The artist’s journey began in the 1980s when he worked as an illustrator for books based on Vedic themes. He later expanded his work into large-scale paintings. “From 2008 to 2013, he worked on 23 large paintings relating to the Mahabharat,” the post added.

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Tomassetti said meeting the Prime Minister and presenting the painting was a memorable experience. He described Modi as warm and approachable and said the interaction was one of the best moments of his life.

“The experience was fantastic. It was one of the best experiences of my life. He (PM Modi) was very kind, he shook my hand and asked how long it took me to create this painting,” Tomassetti told news agency ANI.

He also said the artwork was meant to act as a cultural bridge between Italy and India, especially reflecting the spiritual essence of Varanasi. “This is the holy town of Varanasi. I love India, and my art is greatly influenced by Indian culture,” he said.

PM Modi reached Rome on Tuesday night and was received by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. She later hosted a dinner for him, and the two leaders also visited the historic Colosseum.

Sharing photos from the visit, PM Modi said he had detailed discussions with Meloni on strengthening India-Italy ties. “We exchanged perspectives on a wide range of subjects. Looking forward to our talks today, where we will continue the conversation on how to boost the India-Italy friendship,” he said.

Meloni also welcomed him on social media, writing, “Welcome to Rome, my friend!"

Before arriving in Italy, PM Modi attended the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Norway, where leaders discussed cooperation in areas like clean energy, trade, innovation, climate action, and artificial intelligence.