Murshidabad artisan's Shola elephant gifted by PM to Ghana speaker
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Kolkata: It was a moment of joy for Samir Saha, a 65-year-old national award-winning artisan from Murshidabad, when he first heard that the replica of an elephant crafted by him was gifted to the Speaker of Ghana, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, by
PM Narendra Modi
during his recent visit to the country.
The miniature elephant, inspired by ceremonial processions where elephants carried nobility in ornate howdahs, symbolises royal tradition and India's rich artistic heritage.
Made of 'Shola' — the milky white pith collected from the stem of Aeschynomene Aspera — the elephant is an exquisite piece that embodies a delicate and intricate art form deeply rooted in the traditions of Bengal. The 11-inch tall elephant replica features a howdah on its back, detailed carvings and floral designs, honouring both India's regal traditions and ethical artisanship.
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"I was not aware of this. Any govt official might have procured it from our showroom. I am happy that Modi-ji found my craft worthy of gifting to the Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana," Saha said. In his small workshop, Uttarayan Shola Shilpalay, at Behrampore, Saha has crafted thousands of artworks over Shola, conch shell and brass for more than five decades.
"I was self-taught when I started working on Shola. I used to sit with artisans and copy the moves of their chisels on Shola.
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During Durga Puja, I tried to decorate the idol with Shola carvings and designs. Gradually, my works started getting appreciated in the neighbourhood. They suggested that I should take up the job of Shola crafting seriously and make it a profession," Saha said.
Initially, he started getting orders from state govt. "Former Governor of West Bengal A R Kidwai came to Murshidabad and I made a replica of Hazar Duari for him.
That brought a lot of appreciation and my work started getting noticed. As the number of orders increased, I created a team of artisans," Saha said.
In 2006, a Durga idol made by Saha received a national award from the former President of India, Pratibha Singh Patil.
"It is difficult to get artisans for Shola crafts. It requires years of practice before one is able to sculpt three-dimensional figures using Shola. Artists are more hooked on having instant fame these days rather than devoting years to hard work," he said.
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