Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to gift US first lady Michelle Obama 100 Banarasi sarees and Banarasi silk dress material. US President Barack Obama would be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade in India this year.
Michelle Obama’s love for Indian silk is no secret. At several international events, the US first lady has been spotted wearing Jacquard silk dresses designed by international bigwigs Tracy Resse, Naeem Khan and Alexander McQueen. Jacquard silk is a specialty of weavers of Banaras, which is now PM Modi’s constituency.
A recent missive from the Prime Minister’s Office for BJP leaders in Varanasi has asked for 100 best Banarasi silk sarees for Michelle Obama. “Banarasi silk sarees with old, unique designs and finest quality Banarasi dress material for the US first lady from PM’s constituency is on its way to New Delhi,” said a senior BJP leader of Varanasi, now closely associated with the PM.
The Varanasi Vastra Udyog Sangh, a body of silk traders of Varanasi, has been tasked with the responsibility of selecting and packaging Modi’s gift.
The Union ministry of textile has also sent a separate request to the Varanasi Vastra Udyog Sangh with details about the Banarasi silk sarees and fabric to be presented to the US first lady.
