Why are Shawls given as felicitation gifts to honor VIPS/ dignitaries?
Our country’s rich culture will always be present in all parts of our lives. Therefore even in the new age of conferences, social events, gatherings, ceremonies, and retirement parties a Shawl is presented/ adorned to the VIP/ dignitary/ guest. It is considered a rich felicitation present and signifies respect and gratitude.
But the question, is why a Shawl? Why not just flowers or chocolates? Or even simple gift vouchers?
The answer is simple: Respect and Presentation
In upscale events, say, inviting a Minister of the Legislature, well-known celebrity, an intellectual, or a personality of a particular industry, one is bound to host their guests in the most respectful manner and present them with gifts that represent the high opinion the social gatherings hold of them. They are not invited to a dinner party to be given chocolates, they are invited to give a speech, and share their knowledge, even for the mere presence of gracing the occasion or in case of a retirement party – to show gratitude to their years of service.
A Shawl is a perfect item to represent and signify this veneration. It is one of the richest pieces of fabric which is made with high attention to detail and requires extreme skill – with most pieces such as a hand-embroidered pashmina shawl taking months to complete.
A Shawl can be presented in two ways – by either giving by hand in good packagings like a superior box or fine handbag or by felicitating it to your guest by wrapping it around your host’s neck (such as one does with a garland of roses). Ding the latter, truly expresses the respect from the community/ host to the guest and also makes for a good photo-op.
You also do not need to worry about getting the wrong size and thereby insulting your guest. The shawl is of one size and can be worn by everyone.
No one actually knows how this practice started, but what is certain is that in current societal terms, a Shawl is the highest mark of respect one can give. The guest would truly be honored to be felicitated by a shawl as a gift.
In our e-shop, you will find a fine collection of precious shawls such as our Kani Shawl in Melange Beige, or a subtle Border Shawl which will not only convey the necessary admiration to your guest but also make your occasion a lifelong memorable one. At our store in Janpath, you have the opportunity to even select them in person and create custom packing solutions!
![Mumtaaz Paisley Cushion, Vintage Red [Set of 2]](https://d13676iop780hb.cloudfront.net/uploads/2025/04/A24-04CC-Set-of-2-1-45-x-45-cm-1.jpg)
