President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed grief over the passing of Vummidi Ethiraj.
Tamil Nadu governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar said Ethiraj played a historic role in the making of the sacred sengol in 1947, at the age of 20.
“With deep sorrow, we inform you of the sad demise of our beloved Shri Vummidi Ethiraj Garu on 21st October 2026,” the noted jeweller’s publicist said in a social media post. Murmu said, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Vummidi Ethiraj Ji, a distinguished craftsperson whose work became part of a defining moment in India’s history. Radhakrishnan said Ethiraj’s efforts in crafting the historic Sengol would always be remembered with respect and gratitude. Modi said in a post on X, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Thiru Vummidi Ethiraj Ji.
President Droupadi Murmu, vice-president C P Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled his death and paid tribute to his contribution to India’s heritage. 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 (Jawaharlal) Nehru.
Crafted by Vummidi Jewellers at the time of Independence, the sengol was ceremonially installed in the new Parliament building by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 28, 2023. Earlier reporting noted: Jeweller who crafted ‘Sengol’ installed in Parliament dies at 99. Earlier reporting noted: Ethiraj passed away in Chennai on Wednesday at the age of 99, according to news agency PTI .
Earlier reporting noted: The PM, in a post on X, said, “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.” PM Modi condoles loss Vice President CP Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday condoled the death of Vummidi Ethiraj, South India’s leading jeweller.