New Delhi: AstatueofRamDarbar, a modelofGolden TempleofAmritsar,Kamdhenu and thesouvenirofJerusalemareamongthepopularitemsin the latest roundofe-auctionofgifts and mementos given to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union minister Meenakashi Lekhi said on Monday.
Thee-auctionthat began on October 2 will end on October 31.
MinisterofState for Culture Lekhi interacted with media at the National GalleryofModern Art (NGMA) here and shared about the cultural significanceoftheitemsunder thee-auction, and urged people to come forward and take part in it.
The minister emphasised that thestatueofRamDarbar, a modelofGolden TempleofAmritsar,Kamdhenu and thesouvenirofJerusalem, areamongthepopularitemsin thisauctionand attracting a lotofbidders.
AstatueofLord Laxmi Narayan Vitthal and goddess Rukmini, the Aranmula Kannadi, a brassstatueofLord Rama, Sita, Laxman, and Lord Hanuman, are alsoamongpopularitems, according to the Culture Ministry.
Replicasofthe Sun Temple at Modhera andVijay StambhofChittorgarh,Chamba rumal,Pattachitra,a rich painting depicting a ghatofVaranasi areamongthe 912itemswhich are partofthe latest roundofe-auctionofgifts and mementos given to the Prime Minister.
Someoftheitemshave been displayed at the NGMA as partofan exhibition starting October 2, which has attracted more than 15,500 visitors, the ministry said in a statement.
To ensure inclusivity, the exhibition offers curated walkthroughs and tours, it said.
Lekhi also highlighted the indigenous art formsofhigh artistic value that are suitable for display in museums or at homesofart enthusiasts.
“These art pieces deserve respect and care. Someoftheseitemsinclude the Gond painting, headgearofYakshagana Dance from Karnataka, and the bustofBasavanna in Bidri work,” she said.
In keeping with tradition, the proceeds from thise-auctionwill contribute to a noble cause, specifically in supportofthe Namami Gange Programme. This flagship initiativeofthe Union government is dedicated to preserving and restoring our national river, the Ganga, and enhancing its delicate ecosystem, the statement said.
The funds generated through thisauctionwill reinforce our unwavering commitment to safeguarding this invaluable national asset, it said. This is the fifth edition in a seriesofsuccessfulauctions, the firstofwhich was held in January 2019.
“In the last four editions, more than 7,000itemshave been put one-auction, and this time there are 912itemsfor thee-auction,” Lekhi had said on October 2.
(Published 23 October 2023, 17:22 IST)