Sengol craftsman Vummidi Ethiraj dies at 99; PM Modi condoles death

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday condoled the death of Vummidi Ethiraj, the craftsman who designed the historic Sengol presented to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1947. Ethiraj, who died on October 21 at the age of 99, was remembered by political leaders for his contribution to India's cultural heritage and traditional jewellery craftsmanship.

Born on November 25, 1926, Ethiraj was the patriarch of the Vummidi family, which owns the 125-year-old Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers.

PM Modi pays tribute to Sengol craftsman Vummidi Ethiraj

In a post on X, Modi expressed grief over his demise and recalled his contribution to the country's cultural heritage.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Shri Vummidi Ethiraj. Hailing from a traditional family with roots in Tamil Nadu, he will always be remembered for designing the historic 'Sengol' (sceptre) that was presented to the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru."

He added, "Many years later, in 2023, our government had the privilege of according the Sengol its due honour in the new Parliament building. On that occasion, I had the good fortune to meet Shri Vummidi Ethiraj and express my gratitude for his contributions to our nation and culture. His life and artistic craftsmanship reflect a remarkable connection between India's proud, rich heritage and the nation's ongoing journey of development. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and well-wishers. Om Shanti."

Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan remembers Ethiraj's legacy

Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan also expressed condolences, remembering Ethiraj's role in crafting the Sengol and his contribution to India's jewellery-making traditions.

"Deeply saddened by the demise of Shri Ummidi Ethiraj, whose efforts in crafting the historic Sengol, a sacred symbol of India's civilisational heritage, will always be remembered with respect and gratitude," he wrote in a post on X.

He added, "His invaluable contribution to preserving India's rich tradition of jewellery craftsmanship leaves behind an enduring legacy. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones."

Keshav Prasad Maurya pays tribute to Sengol maker

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya also mourned Ethiraj's death, recalling his contribution to the creation of the historic Sengol.

"The news of the passing of Thiru Vummidi Ethiraj ji, who made a significant contribution to the creation of the historic 'Sengol', is deeply saddening. His contribution toward preserving India's rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship traditions will always be remembered. My deepest condolences go out to the bereaved family."

"I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant a place at His feet to the departed soul and to provide the grieving family with the strength and fortitude to endure this immense loss. Om Shanti!" Maurya wrote.

Tamil Nadu Governor recalls Ethiraj's role in making the Sengol

Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar also paid tribute to Ethiraj, highlighting his role in the making of the Sengol in 1947, when he was around 20 years old.

In a statement issued by Lok Bhavan, Tamil Nadu, Arlekar said, "Thiru. Vummidi Ethirajulu, who played a historic role in the making of the sacred Sengol in 1947 at the young age of 20, has passed away.

"His contribution to the creation of the Sengol, a timeless symbol of India's civilisational heritage, righteous governance and the transfer of power at the dawn of Independence, will always be remembered with reverence and pride. His life and craftsmanship have become part of a significant chapter in our nation's history," the statement said.

"I extend my heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and pray that they find strength and solace in this hour of grief. May his soul attain eternal peace," it added.

What is Sengol?

The Sengol is a five-foot, gold-plated silver sceptre rooted in ancient Tamil culture. Derived from the Tamil word semmai, meaning righteousness, it symbolises just authority and fair governance and is associated with the Chola tradition of reminding rulers of their duties.

Suggested by C. Rajagopalachari, the sceptre was presented to Nehru in August 1947 to mark the transfer of power from British rule. In May 2023, PM Modi installed it near the Lok Sabha Speaker's podium in the new Parliament building, where it was accorded a place of honour as a symbol of India's civilisational heritage and the transfer of power at Independence.

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