Rabindranath Tagore legacy steals the show as Modi, Sweden PM exchange rare historic gifts

According to an official statement, the gift presented by Prime Minister Kristersson included a box containing two replicas of handwritten epigrams by Tagore, accompanied by an explanatory note and a photograph of the poet taken in 1921 during his visit to Uppsala University.

The statement noted that the originals, recently discovered in the Swedish National Archives, were created by Tagore during his visits to Sweden in 1921 and 1926.

In return, Prime Minister Modi presented Kristersson with a collection of Tagore’s works along with a handcrafted bag from Shantiniketan, featuring motifs chosen by the poet to support local artisans.

The statement said the bag reflects Tagore’s philosophy that art should not be confined to galleries but integrated into everyday life, bridging the gap between the intellectual and the functional.

Although Tagore could not travel to Sweden in 1913 to receive the Nobel Prize, he was later received by King Gustav V during his 1921 visit to the country.

Officials said the exchange of gifts symbolises the shared cultural and intellectual heritage between India and Sweden, while also paying tribute to Tagore’s enduring legacy. The event also marks the centenary of his historic 1926 visit to Sweden.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi also received Sweden’s Royal Order of the Polar Star, Commander Grand Cross—one of the country’s highest honours awarded to a head of government.

Earlier, Modi shared a video on X showing his arrival in Sweden, where he was welcomed by members of the Bengali community. He said the reception, attended by Prime Minister Kristersson, showcased a glimpse of vibrant Bengali culture.

Prime Minister Modi is currently on a five-nation tour, with Sweden marking the third stop of his diplomatic visit.