Bhutan King and Prime Minister Visit Gujarat

Gandhinagar : Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay are on a three-day visit to Gujarat. On Monday, they arrived in Gandhinagar and met with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

Patel hosted a special meal in honor of the distinguished guests and presented them with traditional Kutch handicrafts, including a replica of the world-famous Rogan art and a Bhujodi shawl as souvenirs.

Bhujodi Weaving Art: Bhujodi weaving art, a traditional handicraft from Bhujodi village in Kutch district, is renowned for its intricate hand-woven textiles. Skilled weavers use high-quality wool and cotton fibers, locally sourced, to create shawls, stoles, sarees, and blankets. This art form, passed down through generations, employs the additional weft weaving technique, producing textiles celebrated for their beauty and rich heritage. Bhujodi weaving has gained international recognition, becoming a popular choice among fashion designers and consumers alike. It remains a vital part of the local economy, with many families relying on this craft for their livelihood. Efforts are ongoing to promote and preserve Bhujodi weaving for future generations.

Rogan Art: Rogan art, a four-century-old painting technique on cloth, originates from Kutch district. This unique art form uses castor oil as its main ingredient, which is reflected in its name—'Rogan' meaning 'oil-based' in Persian. The intricate designs, often featuring flowers and mandala patterns, include the highly admired 'Tree of Life'. Although Rogan art was nearly extinct, joint efforts by the state government and the Kutchi community have successfully revived it, ensuring its continuation as a cherished cultural heritage.

The visit by Bhutan's leaders underscores the cultural exchange and appreciation between India and Bhutan, highlighting Gujarat's rich artistic traditions.