Culture

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first Indian leader to dedicate all mementoes he receives to charitable causes, with the collection being placed for e-auction. Among the items featured are a pashmina shawl from Jammu & Kashmir, a Tanjore painting of Ram Durbar, a metallic Nataraja statue, and a Rogan Art piece from Gujarat depicting the Tree of Life.

Rogan Art, a distinctive craft of Gujarat, involves applying freehand designs on fabric using a thick paste made from castor oil and natural pigments. The word “Rogan” comes from Persian, meaning “oil.” Traditionally practiced by the Khatri family of Nirona village in Kutch, this four-hundred-year-old art form was once on the verge of extinction. Its revival has made it a symbol of India’s intangible cultural heritage, showcasing intricate stylus-applied motifs and vibrant detailing.

The auction not only raises funds for noble causes but also highlights India’s diverse cultural traditions, giving crafts like Rogan Art global recognition.

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