Guwahati, Jan 27: Northeast India’s rich handloom, handicraft and agro-horticultural heritage was showcased collectively for the first time at the President of India’s ‘At Home’ banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Republic Day , marking a milestone moment for the region.
The display was curated by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), bringing together cultural expressions from all eight Northeastern states under one roof.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the gathering alongside Union Ministers, diplomats and international dignitaries. The occasion gained added global prominence with the presence of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and Chief Guest of the 2025 Republic Day parade, and António Costa, President of the European Council.
NEHHDC transformed the venue with installations reflecting the Northeast’s diverse cultural identity.
Assamese symbols such as the brass Xorai and Gamosa, Naga kitchen elements including the Singtha plate and dry corn husks, Manipur’s Longpi black pottery, Kauna grass baskets, traditional fishing tools, and cane sculptures of the one-horned rhinoceros and elephant highlighted indigenous craftsmanship and sustainable traditions.
A key attraction was the “Boat Fruit Basket,” featuring GI-tagged produce such as Kaji Nemu, Khasi Mandarin, Queen Pineapple and Naga King Chilli, while a cane installation creatively depicted the Indian Tricolour using organic materials.
The dining arrangements further underscored unity, with octagonal table mats symbolising the eight Northeastern states—Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim—each adorned with distinctive weaving motifs representing their textile heritage.
Traditional cultural performances from across the region added vibrancy to the evening, offering guests a glimpse into the living traditions of Northeast India. The historic showcase at Rashtrapati Bhavan placed the region’s cultural identity, craftsmanship and agro-horticultural wealth firmly on a national and global stage.
Honoured to attend the ‘At Home’ reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan and experience the beautiful artistic heritage of India’s Northeast! @rashtrapatibhvn @MEAIndia #RepublicDay2026 pic.twitter.com/AvJyP8Yfw3
— Ambassador May-Elin Stener (@NorwayAmbIndia) January 26, 2026
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