The Prime Minister’s Mementos e-Auction 2025 brings together over 1,300 special items gifted to the Hon’ble Prime Minister from around the country including unique mementos from North East India. Representing Assam, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, these gifts highlight the region’s craft, tradition, and cultural pride. The auction, running online at pmmementos.gov.in till October 2, is not just a chance to own national treasures, it is also a way to support the Namami Gange Project, with every bid funding Holy river’s conservation effort.

Nagaland:

Mithun – Wooden Sculpture of a Bull

This wooden sculpture, presented by the Governor of Nagaland, depicts the Mithun, a powerful and revered animal central to Naga life. Carved in bold detail and polished to a sheen, the sculpture stands as a symbol of wealth and social prestige among the Naga people. Its form reflects the deep bonds between community, culture, and nature that define Nagaland’s crafts tradition. This is a rare opportunity to own a piece that represents both regional identity and fine artistry.

Handloom Naga Shawl

The Naga shawl on auction is more than a textile; it is a symbol of heritage. With a deep-coloured base accented by bright red panels and embroidered motifs of spears and shields, the shawl embodies courage and honor. In Naga society, handwoven shawls record social standing and personal achievement, telling stories that are passed from one generation to the next. This piece is ideal for anyone wishing to connect with the living narrative of North East India.

Meghalaya:
Cane Ship Model

Skillfully assembled from local cane, this model ship reflects Meghalaya’s tradition of bamboo and cane craftsmanship. Built with layered decks and finely engraved patterns, the model showcases the region’s approach to art: resourceful, hands-on, and imaginative. It stands as a symbol of aspiration and craftsmanship, turning everyday materials into an intricate, collectible object.

Assam:

Garuda Wall Mask

This Garuda mask comes from Majuli, the world’s largest river island and cultural heart of Assam. Created out of clay and cane using traditional mask-making skills, it represents Garuda, the divine bird from mythology used in classical performances and rituals. The mask is filled with local meaning, skill, and faith, making it a true artifact of Assamese spiritual and storytelling traditions.

Traditional Assamese Japi

Woven from bamboo and palm leaves, and decorated with vibrant colored shapes, the Japi is a rain guard and symbol of honor across Assam. Traditionally worn by farmers and given to guests, it highlights the link between daily work, hospitality, and pride in rural culture. To own a Japi is to hold a piece of Assam’s identity in hand.

Muga Silk Angavastra

This golden-hued angavastra, woven from Assam’s famous muga silk, illustrates the unique silk tradition of the state. The garment, with its intricate woven patterns and impressive sheen, is ideal for ceremonial occasions but also reflects everyday pride. It is sturdy, beautiful, and a special example of skilled Assamese weaving.

Sikkim:

Brass Sculpture of Lord Buddha

The elegant brass depiction of Lord Buddha, crafted by Sikkimese artisans, shows the Buddha in serene meditation. With detailed robes and a calm expression, the piece highlights the Buddhist influences that shape Sikkim’s cultural and artistic heritage.

Arunachal Pradesh:

Wancho Wooden Craft – Tribal Couple

Beautifully carved from wood and set on a single base, this sculpture represents a traditional Wancho couple from Arunachal Pradesh. The figures, shown in local attire, exemplify the woodcraft skills and symbolic storytelling of the Wancho community. Presented in a striking red box, the artifact offers insight into tribal identity and carved traditions.

For more information and to register your bids, visit pmmementos.gov.in.
Bidding is open until October 2. Every winning bid supports river conservation and national heritage.

****

Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2171113) Visitor Counter : 484