India

Vummidi Ethiraj, 99, Founder of 125‑Year‑Old Jewellers, Dies

By HT News Desk, hindustantimes.com

Vummidi Ethiraj, the patriarch of the Vummidi family that owns the 125‑year‑old Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers, died in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, on Wednesday at the age of 99. The Vummidi family is known for its long history in jewellery making. Ethiraj was involved in the creation of the Sengol, a gold‑plated silver sceptre that symbolised the transfer of power from British authorities to independent India in 1947. The Sengol was presented to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on the eve of Independence by priests from the Thiruvaduthurai Adheenam in Tamil Nadu. Decades later, the sceptre was installed in the new Parliament building on 28 May 2023, a ceremony presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After Ethiraj’s death, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sadness. Modi posted on X, saying, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Thiru Vummidi Ethiraj Ji. Hailing from a distinguished family based in Tamil Nadu, he will always be remembered for his efforts in crafting the historic Sengol that was presented to Former Prime Minister Nehru.” He added that in 2023 the government had the honour of giving the Sengol a place of pride in the new Parliament building and that he had met Ethiraj and expressed gratitude for his contribution to the nation and culture. Radhakrishnan also posted on X, noting that Ethiraj’s work on the Sengol, a sacred symbol of India’s civilisational heritage, will always be remembered with respect and gratitude. He said, “His invaluable contribution to preserving India’s rich tradition of jewellery craftsmanship leaves behind an enduring legacy. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”