PM Mementos e-Auction 2025 Showcases Cultural Heritage of J&K and Ladakh

The 7th edition of the Prime Minister’s Mementos e-Auction, organised by the Ministry of Culture through the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi, has opened to the public with a remarkable display of artistry, heritage, and tradition. The auction, live at www.pmmementos.gov.in from September 17 to October 2, 2025, offers citizens an opportunity to own unique items gifted to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi while contributing to a noble cause—the Namami Gange Project, the Government’s flagship programme for rejuvenating the Ganga.

This year, the spotlight is on Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, whose contributions enrich the auction with their centuries-old cultural and artistic traditions. Together, 71 items from Jammu & Kashmir and 5 from Ladakh bring to the fore the essence of craftsmanship, spirituality, and living heritage from India’s northernmost regions.

Treasures from Jammu & Kashmir

Among the highlights from Jammu & Kashmir are exquisite shawls that embody the valley’s legendary textile legacy:

• Ivory-Colored Pashmina Shawl with Multicolored Sozni Embroidery: A masterpiece of Kashmiri needlework, this handwoven shawl features delicate Sozni embroidery, a tradition passed down through generations. Intricate floral and vine motifs in vibrant threads enhance the natural softness of Pashmina, telling a timeless story of artisanal excellence.

• Kani Pashmina Shawl with Embroidery: Crafted using wooden “kanis” (needles) on traditional handlooms, the Kani shawl is a crown jewel of Kashmiri weaving. Its complex, coded patterns take months to execute, often inspired by the natural beauty of the valley. Renowned worldwide, Kani shawls are symbols of cultural heritage and artistic perseverance.

Artistic Gems from Ladakh

Ladakh’s artistic spirit finds expression in objects of devotion and refined craftsmanship:

• Thangka Painting Scroll: This vibrant thangka depicts Shakyamuni Buddha in serene meditation, with his right hand forming the Bhumisparsha mudra, symbolizing enlightenment. Rich in iconographic detail, it exemplifies Himalayan artistic traditions, serving as a tool for meditation, spiritual teaching, and cultural preservation.

• Brass Surai with Intricate Floral Designs: An elegant vessel reflecting Ladakhi metalwork, this Surai is adorned with fine floral engravings and traditional motifs. Its superior brass quality and ornamental appeal highlight Ladakh’s enduring legacy of craftsmanship, making it both a utilitarian and decorative treasure.

A Diverse Collection of 1,300+ Items

Beyond J&K and Ladakh, the PM Mementos e-Auction 2025 features more than 1,300 items, including:

• Regional handicrafts, sculptures, and paintings.

• Spiritual artifacts and traditional textiles.

• Sports memorabilia, such as equipment and gear presented to the Prime Minister by national athletes.

Each item tells a unique story, representing India’s cultural diversity, artistic mastery, and spirit of innovation.

Supporting Namami Gange

As in previous editions, all proceeds from the auction will directly support the Namami Gange Project, aimed at rejuvenating the sacred river Ganga through pollution abatement, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable livelihood development along the river basin.

Citizen Participation and Cultural Engagement

The e-auction provides a rare opportunity for citizens to participate in preserving cultural artifacts while contributing to environmental rejuvenation. It also strengthens the bond between governance and cultural heritage, ensuring that the stories behind these mementos resonate widely.

The 7th PM Mementos e-Auction is more than just a sale—it is a celebration of India’s diverse traditions and an invitation for citizens to own a piece of history. From the timeless grace of Kashmiri Pashminas to the spiritual depth of Ladakhi thangkas, the collection exemplifies India’s unity in diversity. By participating, citizens not only acquire artifacts of immense cultural value but also join hands in a national mission to protect and rejuvenate the Ganga—India’s lifeline.