New Delhi, Jan. 22 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted the President of the United Arab Emirates a hand-carved wooden jhula, a traditional swing from Gujarat that carries strong cultural symbolism and reflects India's use of heritage as a tool of diplomacy.

Crafted by skilled artisans, the wooden jhula features intricate floral and traditional motifs, showcasing Gujarat's long-standing woodworking traditions. In many Gujarati households, the jhula occupies a central place in the home and serves as a shared space for family interaction, conversation and bonding across generations.

Beyond its aesthetic value, the jhula symbolises continuity, togetherness and the social fabric of Indian family life. The choice of gift gains added signif...