Artifacts from Odisha feature in PM Mementos e-Auction

Bhubaneswar: The PM Mementos e-Auction 2025, inviting citizens to bid on a rich array of cultural treasures from across India, included many artifacts from Odisha, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. The online auction, hosted at pmmementos.gov.in, runs until Oct 2, with all proceeds supporting the Namami Gange Project, a national mission to rejuvenate the sacred Ganga river.Odisha’s 21 featured items celebrate its mastery in handloom and mythological storytelling. Pattachitra artworks, painted on palm leaf and traditional media, depict tales of Krishna, Radha and Ganesh in natural hues. The Silver Peacock Memento exemplifies Odisha’s filigree finesse, while the Tussar Silk Painting of Navagunjara—a mythical nine-element form of Lord Krishna—blends textile skill with spiritual imagination, a ministry of culture release said.Jharkhand’s 27 curated mementos showcase the depth of tribal identity and spiritual legacy. A finely crafted tribute to Birsa Munda anchors the collection, capturing the legendary freedom fighter’s strength and symbolism. The Lord Ram memento from Medininagar, with its golden hues and ornate lotus pedestal, reflects devotional artistry rooted in tradition.Other highlights include the bold red-and-white Biru turban, emblematic of tribal unity and the embroidered Santal jacket, which preserves the aesthetic heritage of one of India’s oldest tribes.Chhattisgarh’s 16 mementos reflect tribal vibrancy and sacred symbolism. Dhokra metal casting dominates the collection, with pieces like “Musicians in Dhokra Art” and the Elephant Head Nandi Statue showcasing intricate bronze work and spiritual motifs. The Statue of Tribal Dancers captures rhythmic harmony and communal celebration through detailed craftsmanship.Launched in 2019, the PM Mementos e-Auction offers the public a chance to own items presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This year’s edition, organized by the ministry of culture and displayed at the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, features over 1,300 items — from tribal arts and handicrafts to sports memorabilia and ceremonial gifts. Each winning bid contributes to the Namami Gange Project, reinforcing the link between cultural pride and environmental stewardship.