Gifts to Get for Canadian Friends from India

Living in Canada for the past five years has been an enriching journey, especially for someone like me who originally hails from the bustling, colourful streets of Delhi. As a writer and travel enthusiast, I’ve found great joy in sharing little pieces of my culture with my Canadian friends. There’s something magical about gifting items that carry the essence of India – it’s like offering a slice of my homeland. If you’re looking for Indian gifts for Canadians, you’ll want something unique and meaningful that tells a story. Here’s my carefully curated list of 20 thoughtful gifts.

Introduction

I’ve observed that non-Indians often have a deep curiosity about India and its rich culture. Whether it’s the vibrant festivals, intricate art, or delicious food, there’s always something that fascinates them. When choosing gifts for my Canadian friends, I look for items that are not just beautiful but also carry a story. These unique items to get from India for Canadian colleagues will not only impress but also create lasting memories.

1. Handcrafted Jewelry

Indian handcrafted jewelry is a treasure trove of intricate designs and unparalleled craftsmanship. Think of a pair of jhumkas or a stunning Kundan necklace. I once gifted a friend a pair of meenakari earrings, and she was absolutely floored by the artistry. These pieces are perfect because they’re unique and add a touch of elegance to any outfit. Plus, they showcase India’s rich tradition of jewelry making. A lovely Indian gift for Canadians who love traditional fashion!

2. Traditional Indian Clothing

Traditional Indian attire is not just clothing; it’s an experience. A vibrant dupatta can also be a great accessory that adds a splash of color to any wardrobe. I still remember the joy on my colleague’s face when she wore a saree for the first time at a Diwali party. It was a cultural exchange moment that we both cherished.

3. Ayurvedic Skincare Products

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers some amazing natural skincare products. From herbal face masks to organic oils, these are not easily available in Canada. I once gifted a friend an Ayurvedic skincare set, and she couldn’t stop raving about the natural glow it gave her skin. These products are a perfect blend of traditional and modern skincare needs, making them a thoughtful gift. Consider reputed brands like Kama Ayurveda, Deyga Skincare, and Good Earth.

4. Indian Art Prints

Indian art is all about vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Gifting art prints of famous Indian paintings or traditional folk art like Madhubani or Warli can transform any space. These prints are not just decor; they’re conversation starters. I have a Madhubani painting in my living room, and it never fails to grab attention and spark interesting conversations about Indian art and culture.

5. Copper Utensils

Copper utensils are a staple in Indian households, valued for their health benefits. Copper has natural antimicrobial properties, which means it can kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. This can help reduce the risk of infections and promote better hygiene in the kitchen.

A copper water bottle or a copper tumbler can be a thoughtful gift that combines tradition with utility. My friends love the idea of drinking water the old-school Indian way. It’s a simple yet significant gift that introduces them to an aspect of daily healthy life.

6. Scented Incense Sticks Gift Set

Indian incense sticks, with their rich fragrances, can create a soothing environment. They are perfect for meditation, yoga, or simply enhancing the ambiance of a home. I often light up a few sticks when I’m missing the earthy aromas back home. Gifting incense sticks is like sharing a piece of peace and tranquility from India.

7. Handwoven Textiles

India’s handwoven textiles are a work of art. A handloom shawl, a Pashmina scarf, or a Khadi cloth can be incredibly special gifts. These items support traditional weavers and artisans and bring a piece of India’s rich textile heritage to Canada. I still remember the warmth and softness of a Pashmina shawl I received from a relative – it felt like a warm hug from home.

8. Indian Spices in Decorative Containers

While spices might seem like a common gift, presenting them in beautifully crafted containers or spice boxes can make them special. These containers, often made of wood or metal with intricate designs, make for a unique and useful gift. I once gifted a set of spices in a traditional wooden box, and my friends were thrilled to try authentic Indian recipes with them.

9. Traditional Board Games

People in Canada love board games! Board games like Indian Ludo can be a unique gift. These games are not only fun but also carry a piece of Indian history and culture, offering a unique gaming experience. Playing these games with friends can be a fun way to introduce them to traditional Indian pastimes.

10. Herbal Teas

India offers a variety of herbal teas that go beyond the usual chai. Tulsi (holy basil) tea, hibiscus tea, or a blend of spices like masala tea can be refreshing and healthy gifts. My Canadian friends always enjoy the exotic flavors and the soothing effect of these teas. They often tell me how a cup of tulsi tea has become their go-to stress reliever.

11. Indian Sweets (Mithai)

Indian sweets are a delightful treat. Packaged in beautiful boxes, sweets like ladoos, barfis, and gulab jamuns bring a taste of India’s rich culinary tradition. They’re perfect for sharing during festivals or special occasions. I remember the sheer delight on my friend’s face when she tasted her first piece of kaju katli – it was love at first bite!

12. Handcrafted Leather Goods

Handcrafted leather items like wallets, belts, and bags from India are known for their quality and durability. These make for practical yet stylish gifts that your friends will appreciate. You can also get vibrant leather material purses and wallets.

13. Brass Décor Items

Brass items such as diya lamps, figurines, or decorative bowls are not only aesthetically pleasing but also carry cultural significance in Indian households. They make for thoughtful and elegant gifts. I gifted a brass diya to a colleague, and she loved using it during her meditation sessions, finding its warm glow deeply calming.

14. Handcrafted Pottery

Handcrafted pottery from regions like Khurja or Jaipur can make beautiful and unique gifts. Items like vases, bowls, and decorative plates are functional and serve as art pieces. A Khurja pottery vase I have at home always draws admiration for its intricate design and vibrant colours.

15. Organic Indian Coffee

India produces some excellent coffee, especially from regions like Coorg and Chikmagalur. Gifting a bag of high-quality, organic Indian coffee can be a delightful surprise for coffee enthusiasts. The rich aroma and unique flavours of Indian coffee often leave my friends asking for more.

16. Handcrafted Stationery

Items like handmade paper journals, notebooks, and cards from India can be charming gifts. These are often made with recycled materials and feature beautiful traditional designs. A handmade paper journal I gifted to a writer friend became her favourite tool for jotting down thoughts and ideas.

17. Indian-Author Books or India-Based Books

Last but not least: my favourite kind of gift! What can be a better gift for book lovers than a book?

At the library, a friend from New Zealand asked me about Indian authors. She was curious to know about Indian as well as fiction books by Indian authors.

For the book lovers among your friends, consider gifting them works by Indian authors or books set in India. From classics by R.K. Narayan to contemporary novels by Arundhati Roy or Jhumpa Lahiri, these books provide a deep dive into Indian culture and stories. A friend of mine couldn’t put down “The God of Small Things” once she started reading it – it offered her a vivid, immersive experience of Kerala’s landscape and culture. My favourite books based in India and/or by Indian authors are:

• The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakurni
• The Perfumist of Paris by Alka Joshi
• Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
• The Covenant of Water by Abhraham Verghese
• A Suitable Boy by Vikram Seth

Choosing the perfect gift involves a blend of thoughtfulness and a touch of uniqueness. These best gifts from India not only offer a piece of Indian culture but also provide something that your Canadian friends might not easily find locally. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to show appreciation, these unique items to get from India for Canadian colleagues will undoubtedly bring joy and a sense of cultural exchange. Remember, the best gifts are those that tell a story and create lasting memories. So, next time you’re looking to share a piece of India with your friends in Canada, consider these thoughtful and distinctive options.