G20 Summit: World leaders to dine in style with meals served on silver, gold-plated tableware, watch

Heads of State and distinguished world leaders attending the forthcoming G20 Summit will be treated to grand meals served on exquisite silverware, featuring intricately engraved motifs inspired by India's rich cultural heritage. Iris Jaipur, a prominent metalware firm based in Jaipur, recently unveiled a sneak peek of its opulent silverware collection during a preview event in New Delhi.

Iris Jaipur has been entrusted with the task of crafting custom-made tableware and silverware by several luxury hotels. These bespoke sets will be used to accommodate foreign guests during their hotel stays and for lavish banquets and luncheons hosted in their honor.

The collection boasts an array of tableware, most of which is constructed from a steel or brass base, sometimes incorporating a blend of both materials. These pieces are meticulously coated with silver, while some select items, such as plates intended for serving welcome drinks, feature a luxurious gold plating. Laksh Pabuwal, a representative from the silverware firm, provided insights into the craftsmanship and materials involved in these stunning creations.

Remarkably, a team of 200 artisans has meticulously crafted approximately 15,000 pieces of silverware in preparation for the G20 Summit. The joint venture is led by Laksh Pabuwal and his father, Rajeev Pabuwal.

The creation of this impressive collection demanded an astonishing 50,000 man-hours, with skilled artisans hailing from various regions, including Jaipur, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and more, contributing their expertise to the project. Rajeev Pabuwal, speaking on behalf of Iris Jaipur, described the designs as characterized by meticulous detailing, beaded borders, and a harmonious fusion of semi-machined handcraftsmanship with contemporary casting techniques. The electroplated silver finish adds a touch of sophistication, perfectly aligning with the grandeur of the impending event.

Iris Jaipur's curated tableware collection serves as a bridge between tradition and modern aesthetics, undoubtedly becoming the crown jewel of the G20 Summit, as noted by the company.

Rajeev Pabuwal emphasized that the designs pay homage to India's rich cultural heritage and its prominent global stature. He elaborated, "The tableware and silverware depict the glorious cultural heritage of India, featuring motifs of flowers, peacocks, and our national animal, gracing the plates and other items. The silverware will captivate the Heads of State with their cultural allure, leaving them in awe."

The G20 Leaders' Summit is scheduled to take place at the newly-constructed international convention and exhibition center, Bharat Mandapam, in Pragati Maidan.

Rajeev Pabuwal noted, "This silverware is all silver-plated, known for its hygienic properties, and was used by Maharajas in ancient times. India's rich culture is still reflected in the use of silver plating even in the most prestigious venues worldwide. It's an alloy made from copper and various materials."

The designs of the tableware and silverware pieces not only celebrate India's cultural heritage but also underline its global standing. Rajeev Pabuwal proudly stated, "Previously, we used to import such items from other countries, but all the silverware you see here has been designed and crafted right here in India. This is a commendable effort to promote 'Make in India' and 'Made in India.' We've skillfully blended semi-machined handcraftsmanship with modern casting techniques." He also mentioned the creation of special silverware for presenting garlands and other ceremonial items used in welcoming VVIP guests, showcasing motifs like peacocks, flowers, and the distinctive banana leaf thali. All items are meticulously silver-plated, reinforcing the commitment to exquisite craftsmanship and cultural representation. Rajeev Pabuwal added that he has previously created silverware for various significant events, further attesting to his expertise in this craft.