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Bhedaghat's Marble Artisans Thrive, Thank PM Modi for PM Vishwakarma Yojana Boost

Artisans in Bhedaghat, known as India's grand canyon, are celebrating new recognition and support for their intricate marble sculpting tradition. Sculptors credit training camps under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana for spurring progress and skill development in the sector. The sustainable industry, using unique multi-colored marble from the Narmada riverbanks, provides crucial livelihoods to local families. Craftsmen expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for bringing unprecedented attention to their grassroots art form.

Key Points: Bhedaghat Sculptors Thank PM Modi for PM Vishwakarma Yojana Support

  • PM Vishwakarma Yojana training camps
  • Sustainable marble carving industry
  • Intricate deity sculptures
  • Livelihood for local families
2 min read

MP: Bhedaghat's marble art gets new recognition, sculptors thank PM Modi

MP's Bhedaghat marble sculptors credit PM Vishwakarma Yojana for sector growth, training new artisans and providing sustainable livelihoods through intricate stone art.

"We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi for giving importance to this work. He thought about the grassroots artisans. - Sculptor Sheikh Ahfaz"

Bhopal, Dec 31

Bhedaghat, often referred to as the 'grand canyon of India', is a beautiful tourist destination known for its stone art, particularly marble sculpting. Artisans in this region create intricate deities and other sculptures from the soft marble found along the banks of the Narmada River.

The sculptors transform the marble into elaborate deities and unique sculptures, which in turn provide livelihood opportunities to many sculptors and their families. The marble and stone carving industry has emerged as a sustainable business in the region, providing employment and income to numerous residents.

A couple of marble sculptors speaking to IANS said that camps organised under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana here, trained the wannabe craftsmen and sculptors, thus spurring progress in the sector. Many of them thanked the Prime Minister for launching this scheme.

Sculptor Sheikh Ahfaz, in a conversation with IANS, said that the artwork and handcrafted items here are famous. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highly appreciated them at an event held at Yashobhoomi. We present special gifts to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion.

Sheikh Ahfaz said that many types of marble items are made here.

"We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi for giving importance to this work. He thought about the grassroots artisans. No Prime Minister before him ever thought about us," he added.

Sculptor Aaron Khan has been making and selling marble sculptures for the past 40 years. He said that all types of sculptures are made from marble. All the sculptures are handcrafted by artisans.

Notably, Bhedaghat is known for its stunning marble cliffs, where limestone rocks rise to 30 meters above the river.

Also, the unique marble of the Bhedaghat region comes in various colours such as white, grey, pink, and bluish-grey, further enhancing the beauty of the marble cliffs.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good to see PM Vishwakarma Yojana having a real impact on the ground. Schemes that directly empower our skilled artisans are what we need. The marble industry can become a major export if supported properly. Jai Hind!
A
Aman W
While I appreciate the focus on artisans, I hope this recognition translates into sustainable income and market access for them, not just photo-ops. The real test is whether their children will see a future in this craft.
S
Sarah B
Visited Bhedaghat last year. The place is magical! The cliffs and the sculptures are incredible. Bought a small Ganesha idol. It's beautiful to know the story behind the craft. More power to the sculptors!
V
Vikram M
This is our heritage. We must protect and promote it. The government should also ensure these artisans get proper healthcare and social security. Skill is one thing, a dignified life is another.
K
Karthik V
The pink and bluish-grey marble sounds fascinating. Hope this leads to more tourists visiting MP. Our country has so much to offer beyond the usual destinations. Well done to all the sculptors keeping this art alive for 40 years!

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