New York-based international award winning artist Shreya Mehta recently met India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and presented him with one of her signature charcoal sketches titled ‘The Sweeper’. Shreya was accompanied by her husband Amish to the meeting at Parliament House. She is is the daughter of Subodh Tarachand Shah (s/o Tarachand Shah) and Smita Bhansali Shah (d/o of Rasik Bhansali). 

Elaborating on the events that led to the meeting, Shreya recalled, “‘Big changes come with small steps’ - this is what Mr. Narendra Modi said at Madison Square Garden and the thought really inspired me. With the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, I believe Modiji is the visible embodiment of my artwork ‘The Sweeper’. His personal and professional achievements are a perfect representation of leadership and this beautiful vision. I am honored to gift him my artwork.”

The plan was firmed up when Shreya wrote a letter to Narendra Modi’s office highlighting why she would like to present the painting to him. “They immediately called back and confirmed a mutually convenient day for us to come to Delhi and meet the PM in person,” she said.

“It was truly an inspirational event for me,” Shreya added.

What made it extra special was the very warm welcome she received from the PM, whom she describes as “a down-to-earth, humble, charismatic personality”.  He greeted her by name, talked about some of the projects that were close to his heart like the Manibhadra Veer temple, Vadgam and the Clean Ganga campaigns and autographed books for their children.

The high point came when the PM wrote a poem for her in Gujarati and read it out to them before presenting it to her as a token of his appreciation. The English translation :
"Art is Worship and not just a ritual.
Here, there is a trilogy of mediums, devotion and achievement flowing from the brush.
Art conquers destruction.
Art is blessed with Immortality! “
Blessings to Shreya -an Art Devotee....
N. MODI 4.03.15"