Craft Focus - October/November 2025 (Issue 111)

INDIA: A GLOBAL BEACON IN GIFTING India’s grand gifting story: a culture that moves hearts – and markets. Here, the team from Gifts World Expo & Paperworld India, tell us more... In India, gifting transcends the simple act of giving — it’s a profound expression of emotion, identity, and tradition. Whether wrapped in rich silks or infused with the scent of sandalwood, a gift in India is never just an object; it’s a heartfelt narrative, silently conveying appreciation, legacy, and connection. Deeply rooted in age-old customs yet constantly evolving with modern innovation and design, India’s gifting culture represents a language of emotion that goes far beyond functionality. Today, this powerful cultural force has matured into a flourishing industry. According to a recent report by TechSci Research, the Indian gifting market is valued at USD 75.16 billion and is expected to grow to USD 92.32 billion by 2030 — driven by a blend of emotional significance, cultural richness, and sophisticated design sensibility. The sentiment behind the gift Gifting in India is not merely seasonal or obligatory, it’s instinctive and deeply emotional. From festivals and weddings to business milestones, new beginnings, or simple gestures of gratitude, the intent behind a gift carries far more weight than its price. This emotional depth cuts across socioeconomic lines. Whether it’s a lavish society wedding or a modest household celebration, gifting serves to honour, bless, and delight. One of the most talked-about examples is the Ambani family wedding, where even the invitation was a gift in itself—a temple-shaped box, adorned with silver and gold, playing devotional hymns and holding keepsakes designed to be cherished. Even on the global stage, Indian leaders have carried this tradition forward. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic gifts—such as a brass Bodhi tree, traditional sculptures from Bihar, or educational puzzle games— reflect India’s cultural identity and ethos. A fusion of tradition, innovation and sustainability India’s gifting industry is driven by multiple forces: its rich heritage, modern aesthetics, changing consumer behaviour, and a growing preference for experience-led and sustainable offerings. From traditional Diwali diyas and goldleaf sweets to bamboo tech accessories in eco-conscious gift hampers, the segment is a seamless blend of old and new. Key segments driving India’s gifting landscape Luxury & Premium Gifting The luxury segment has seen exponential growth, where every item tells a story. Gift hampers combine Mysore silk scarves with gourmet chocolates and truffles; fragrance boxes feature scents paired with Indian classical ragas. From handcrafted artifacts and limitededition collectibles to pashmina shawls, premium teas, and tech-enabled devices, these gifts are designed for a discerning clientele. Personalisation and regional pride are hallmarks of this segment. Festive & Seasonal Gifting India’s year-round festival calendar, including Diwali, Eid, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Christmas fuels a robust demand for seasonal gifting. Artisanal sweets, designer lanterns, silver items, sustainable décor, and curated pooja hampers dominate this space. Cultural relevance, rather than just visual appeal, guides gift selection. 28

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