Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma took to social media to praise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s enduring affinity for the Assamese Gamosa, a traditional handwoven cotton towel. He expressed admiration for Modi’s consistent choice to sport the Gamosa on significant national and international occasions.
“Admiring PM Narendra Modi’s love for our Assamese Gamosa! He carries it with grace on all important events,” Himanta Sarma wrote in his post.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came during the International Yoga Day celebrations in Kashmir, where PM Modi once again wore the Gamosa prominently. “At the national-level Yoga Day celebrations in Kashmir today, the Hon’ble PM adorned the Gamosa, leading the 10th International Day of Yoga celebrations globally,” Sarma added.
Donning a Gamusa wherever he goes! 🙏
Adarniya Shri @narendramodi ji’s love for our Assamese Gamusa is unparalleled; carrying it with finesse on important occasions.
Today at the national level #YogaDay celebrations in Kashmir, the Hon’ble PM again donned the Gamusa as the… pic.twitter.com/cABvUezDoe
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) June 21, 2024
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also appreciated the PM’s gesture, stating, “The Assamese Gamosa embodies spiritual devotion and solidarity among the devoted masses of Krishnaguru Sevashram. On behalf of the people of Assam and the Krishnaguru Sevashram devotees, I extend heartfelt gratitude to PM Modi for showcasing his affection for the Gamosa.”
PM Modi’s fondness for the Gamosa has been highlighted on numerous occasions. Last year, during the International Yoga Day 2023 celebrations at the United Nations headquarters, the PM participated in a mass yoga session, setting a new Guinness world record. His attire included the Assamese Gamosa draped around his neck, underscoring its cultural significance.
During his visit to the United States, PM Modi shared a photo on social media wearing traditional attire paired with the Gamosa, indicating its presence as a symbol of Assamese culture.
The Prime Minister’s preference for the Assamese Gamosa extends to supporting local artisans by wearing Gamosas crafted by various self-help groups from Assam. His visits, such as to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram in 2019, where he wore the Gamosa, further highlight his commitment to promoting India’s rich cultural heritage.
Additionally, during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hailed PM Modi as a symbol of the Assamese Gamosa’s cultural ambassadorship. Sarma accentuated PM Modi’s role in popularising the Gamosa and his dedicated efforts in showcasing Assam’s natural beauty and cultural richness.