Agra artisans thank PM Modi for bringing global recognition to 'Pietra Dura' craftmanship
Agra, July 14
Artisans in Agra, who have been involved in their generational craft of making 'Pietra Dura' artworks, on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he presented an elegant marble inlay work box featuring the renowned Indian craftmanship to Governor-General of Australia Sam Mostyn AC, during his recent visit to the country.
The gift from the Prime Minister featured fine semi-precious stones meticulously embedded into marble to create a lasting work of art.
Speaking to IANS, President of the Khuddam-e-Roza committee, Haji Tahir Uddin Tahar said: "It is a matter of pride for us and we are extremely fortunate that PM Modi presented our artform to the Australia Governor-General."
"This artwork is called 'Pietra Dura' (marble inlay) and is made in Agra by artisans here. This is my ancestral business, my forefathers were also involved in this," he added.
While admitting that the artwork had lost its sheen off late, Tahar said: "Now since this has come into PM Modi's knowledge and has also been appreciated by the Australian Governor-General, so we are hopeful of earning more from this."
Shamsuddin, an artisan, said that the artworks made by them are sold abroad as well as in India.
"PM Modi is doing great work...we just hope that we keep getting work throughout the year and keep working hard to increase our income. We should be able to earn Rs 1,000 every day in this kind of work, today Rs 500-600 is not sufficient," he told IANS.
Meanwhile, PM Modi presented Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with a collection that celebrates the fusion of culture and innovation.
From the nostalgic sounds of a 'Colonial Cousins' Album vinyl record and premium Indian coffee to a tribal Dhokra boat sculpture crafted using the ancient lost-wax technique.
The Prime Minister presented a pure wool embroidered Kashmiri stole, which is a masterpiece of traditional needlework carrying the centuries-old legacy of Himalayan textile artistry, to First Lady of Australia Jodie Haydon.
Prime Minister Modi also presented a hand-carved wooden elephant, showcasing the delicate lattice work unique to Rajasthan to Australian Opposition leader Angus Taylor.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I'm happy for the artisans, I hope this isn't just a photo-op moment. The artisan quoted says he's struggling to earn even Rs 600 a day, which is barely enough. We need sustainable policies, not just a one-time gift to a foreign dignitary. Let's see real economic upliftment.
As an Australian, I love seeing these cultural exchanges. PM Modi always promotes India's heritage so well. That marble inlay box must have been stunning. Would love to visit Agra one day to see the craftsmen at work.
Shah Jahan would be proud! The Pietra Dura work on the Taj Mahal is legendary, and it's amazing that this 400-year-old tradition is still alive. Modi ji promoting it on the world stage is a great step. Now we need better GI tags and market access for these artisans. 🎨
The article says the artisan wants Rs 1000 per day but currently earns Rs 500-600. That's a tough reality. While the PM's gift is prestigious, these artisans need stable income and better working conditions. The government should create more direct channels for them to sell to tourists and online buyers.
I'm an art historian and I've studied Pietra Dura extensively. This is not just Indian craftsmanship - it's a global heritage. The Mughals brought this from Italy and India perfected it. PM Modi's gift is a wonderful tribute to the unsung artisans of Agra. Well done!
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