Symbolic Diplomacy: Macron Joins Modi in Roadshow, Receives Ram Temple Replica as Gift

Macron, who is the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations in Delhi, explored Jaipur's landmarks, including the Amber Palace, Jantar Mantar observatory, and Hawa Mahal, on a carefully curated tour.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in a vibrant roadshow in Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, where the French leader was presented with a replica of Ayodhya's Ram temple. The leaders participated in the roadshow before engaging in bilateral talks.

Macron, who is the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations in Delhi, explored Jaipur's landmarks, including the Amber Palace, Jantar Mantar observatory, and Hawa Mahal, on a carefully curated tour.

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During the roadshow, the leaders stood in an open-top vehicle, interacting with the public along the route. The visit marked Modi's first to Jaipur after the recent assembly polls and the appointment of Bhajanlal Sharma as the Rajasthan chief minister.

In front of the iconic Hawa Mahal, Modi and Macron admired the illuminated five-story building before visiting a handicrafts shop. Modi, who recently led the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya's new Ram Mandir, purchased a small replica of the temple and paid Rs 500 digitally.

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During the roadshow, the leaders also enjoyed masala chai from a temporary stall set up for the occasion. The tea seller, "Sahu chaiwala," accepted a symbolic Rs 2 payment digitally.

The roadshow concluded at Sanganeri Gate, after which the leaders proceeded to Rambagh Palace for dinner and bilateral talks. Earlier in the day, the French delegation was welcomed at Jaipur airport by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra, and Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.

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Macron had already visited Amber Palace before the official engagements, and the visit included interactions with children and browsing through artifacts. The carefully orchestrated visit showcased the cultural richness of Jaipur and set the stage for diplomatic discussions between India and France.

(With Agency Inputs)

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Read also| Ram Temple Draws Over 2.5 Lakh Devotees, Receives Rs 3.17 Crore in Donations in a Single Day

Read also| Ayodhya's Ram Temple Welcomes Public as Doors Open for Devotees

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