The eighth iteration of the PM Mementos e-auction has officially commenced, presenting a diverse selection of 1,498 gifts and mementos awarded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over various occasions. The auction launched on September 17, coinciding with Modi’s 76th birthday, and is scheduled to run until October 31.

This year’s collection includes a remarkable array of items, such as a silver replica of Kakatiya Kala Thoranam, a handcrafted model of the Royal Navy flagship HMS Victory, and a zardozi artwork showcasing a modern convention centre in Daman. In addition to these, the auction features sports memorabilia, naval models, and a wide range of religious art.

The Ministry of Culture has asserted that the e-auction aims to honour India’s rich heritage, artistic traditions, and cultural diversity. Furthermore, it encourages public engagement while contributing to the ‘Namami Gange Programme’, an initiative aimed at revitalising the Ganga River.

Significant Objects and Starting Bids

Among the standout pieces are 50 hero objects that have been specially identified for this edition. Noteworthy items include a silver memento of Lord Ram from Karnataka valued at Rs 13.50 lakh, and the silver replica of the Kakatiya Kala Thoranam, with a base price of Rs 9 lakh. Additionally, there is a framed Tree of Life Gond art painting starting at Rs 7.50 lakh.

Other significant offerings comprise a Lord Jagannath Parivar figure on a chariot, which is listed at Rs 6 lakh, and a gold-plated Radha Krishna artwork available for Rs 5.40 lakh. The Kakatiya Kala Thoranam, also referred to as the Warangal Gate, is a 12th-century stone gateway historically tied to the Kakatiya dynasty, enhancing the cultural narrative of this year’s auction.

The Lord Ram replica illustrates the deity in a poised position on a decorated lotus pedestal, adorned with jewellery. It encapsulates the spiritual essence, being depicted with a bow and arrow in one hand, while the other hand represents the Abhaya mudra, symbolising protection and fearlessness.

Additional Highlights and Cultural Significance

A model replica of HMS Victory is also available, with a minimum bid of Rs 2.25 lakh. This item captures the essence of Lord Nelson’s renowned ship, featuring multi-tier gun decks and adorned in distinctive yellow and black stripes, resting on a polished wooden base with an official nameplate and miniature Indian flags.

Moreover, sports memorabilia is represented through a pair of running spike shoes gifted to the Prime Minister by a Paralympic silver medallist, alongside a commemorative artwork depicting Daman’s modern convention centre, valued at Rs 1.20 lakh and crafted through zardozi embroidery.

The auction further includes a top-view scale model of INS Nilgiri, which serves as the lead ship of the Indian Navy’s advanced stealth-guided missile frigate programme, listed at Rs 66,000. There is also a miniature 3D model of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in North America priced at Rs 4,500, showcasing elaborate stone-like carvings.

A 3D architectural model of the Lok Sabha chamber within the new Parliament House has a starting bid of Rs 45,000. The model features intricate relief work highlighting significant aspects such as the triangular architecture and layout, along with commemorations for the historic women reservation bill, known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

Shekhawat emphasised that this extensive collection encompasses items linked to various Indian states, including West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, and Odisha. With a total of 1,498 items, this edition of the PM Mementos e-auction not only presents an array of cultural treasures but also plays a crucial role in generating funds for the Namami Gange Programme through public involvement.

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