Varanasi: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Varanasi for the auspicious occasion of 'Dev Deepawali', Kashi artisans have prepared a special 'Angavastram' (cloth) for him. The special shawl contains Lord Buddha's message of spirituality. The Angvastram prepared for PM Modi has the message ‘Buddham Sharnam Gachchami, Dhammam Sharnam Gachchami, Sangham Sharnam Gachchami.’
Angvastram is prepared by Padma Shri and handicrafts expert Dr. Rajinikanth and Bachche Lal, handicraftsman from Ashapur.
Talking to ETV Bharat, Dr. Rajnikanth said, "Everybody is looking forward to PM Modi's Kashi visit. On Dev Deepawali, weavers have prepared a special shawl using Buddhist mantras and leaves of Bodhi tree. The message of Gachchami Dhammam has been written using yellow colors as it holds special value."
Varanasi is famous for its artisans and handicrafts, several instances of which have been presented by the excelled weaver Bacche Lal Maurya.
READ: Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi govt school emerges as role model for other schools
On the occasion of Dev Deepawali, around four lakh lamps will be lit and cultural programs will be organised at fifteen ghats. Prime Minister is also scheduled to visit Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. The cultural programs will be broadcasted live and LEDs have been put in place.
The special gift will be presented to PM Modi on November 30 when he will visit his constituency. The Varanasi weavers have made the handloom using the calligraphic style and leaves of the Bodhi tree which has a special significance in Buddhism. The Bodhi tree is a sacred symbol in Buddhism as it represents the place of Buddha's enlightenment.
Earlier today, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also visited the main venue of Dev Deepawali festival and took stock of the arrangements and other preparations.
READ: Uttar Pradesh Governor promulgates bill against 'love jihad'
