Varanasi:
As US president Barack Obama arrived on Sunday for a three-day visit, weavers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Varanasi constituency were ready with a special gift for Michelle Obama - over 100 banarasi saris.
This special gift for the First Lady is believed to have been put together on a request from PM Modi. The weavers were reportedly asked by the union textile ministry to pack saris for Michelle Obama to choose from.
One of the weavers, Asif Matin, says he has created a sari embroidered with silver and gold zari, worth Rs 1.25 lakh.
In November, PM Modi had urged the community to use opportunities offered by e-commerce to tap the global market. He also said the industry needs comprehensive vision and modern technology.
"Every mother wants a Banarasi sari for her daughter on their wedding day... 20 crore girls will get married in the next few years. So 20 crore saris will be needed. Such a big market waiting for you," the PM told weavers. He said an assured market meant they must increase production and ensure quality, good design and service.
Most of the Varanasi's 40,000 weavers are Muslims who have engaged in the traditional craft, now floundering, for generations. In his election campaign the Prime Minister had promised to help revive their business with modern technology, branding, designing and marketing.