Cultural Artefacts from Northeast India Highlighted in Presidential Auction

Gangtok, India Aug 28, 2026 ALN: Guwahati: Cultural artefacts from Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura feature among the highlights of the third edition of E-Upahaar, the online auction of gifts presented to the President during official engagements.

Organised by Rashtrapati Bhavan, the auction is underway and will conclude on September 4. According to the catalogue, the initiative seeks to turn ceremonial gifts into instruments of social welfare, with proceeds supporting various welfare initiatives. This innovative approach not only highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Northeast but also aims to foster a spirit of philanthropy among participants.

The E-Upahaar auction showcases a diverse range of artefacts, reflecting the unique identities of the northeastern states of India. Each item is imbued with cultural significance, representing the traditions, art forms, and ecological diversity of the region. The auction serves as a platform to promote awareness about these states, which are often less visible in the national discourse despite their rich contributions to India's cultural tapestry.

Among the Assam exhibits is a Guru Asana commemorative plaque, inspired by the sacred wooden throne associated with 16th-century Vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankardeva. This multi-tiered structure, central to Assamese Vaishnavite monasteries, or satras, symbolises spiritual wisdom and the state’s religious and cultural traditions. The highest quoted price for this artefact is Rs 10,000, reflecting its importance not only as a historical piece but also as a representation of Assamese spirituality and philosophy.

Another noteworthy Assamese memento is a “From the Land of Gibbon” commemorative plaque, which highlights the Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, the country’s only sanctuary dedicated to the endangered hoolock gibbon. Gifted to President Droupadi Murmu by MLA Rupjyoti Kumari, this plaque celebrates Assam’s biodiversity and conservation efforts. The highest quoted price for this item is Rs 3,200, indicating a growing appreciation for wildlife conservation among the public.

Nagaland is represented by a painting of a traditional Mao tribal couple, featuring colourful attire, bead ornaments, handcrafted vessels, and motifs reflecting the community’s close relationship with nature. This artwork captures the cultural identity and artistic traditions of one of Nagaland’s prominent Naga communities. The highest quoted price for this piece is Rs 12,000, highlighting the value placed on preserving and promoting indigenous art forms.

Manipur’s entries in the auction include a miniature of the endangered Sangai deer, the state’s iconic “dancing deer” found only in Keibul Lamjao National Park, as well as a sculpture of a polo player on horseback. The polo sculpture, with a highest quoted price of Rs 7,000, pays tribute to the deep historical association between polo and the Meitei civilisation, which is often regarded as the birthplace of the sport. Additionally, another prominent Manipur exhibit is a finely crafted replica of Kangla Sanathong, the historic gateway to Kangla Fort in Imphal. This structure is an important symbol of the history and architecture of the erstwhile Meitei kingdom, with a highest quoted price of Rs 20,000, emphasizing its cultural significance.

Mizoram’s contribution to the auction is a plaque depicting Cheraw, or the bamboo dance, which is one of the state’s best-known folk traditions. The artwork portrays the rhythmic dance performed between clapped bamboo poles and celebrates Mizo cultural heritage and community traditions. The highest quoted price for this piece is Rs 15,000, reflecting the pride the Mizo people take in their cultural expressions.

Tripura is represented by a bamboo replica of the Tripureshwari Temple at Udaipur, a revered Shakti Peetha in India. This model showcases traditional bamboo craftsmanship while highlighting one of the state’s important pilgrimage sites. The highest quoted price for this item is Rs 10,100, indicating a recognition of the artistic skills prevalent in the region.

The catalogue also features a commemorative plaque marking the Platinum Jubilee of the Gauhati High Court, which has jurisdiction over Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram. This inclusion underscores the institution’s significance in the Northeast, reflecting the intersection of law, governance, and regional identity.

The auction catalogue describes the gifts as more than mere ceremonial objects, stating that they embody India’s cultural diversity, artistic traditions, and the stories of communities from across the country. This perspective invites bidders to view their participation not only as a transactional experience but also as a means of engaging with and supporting the cultural narratives of India’s diverse population.

The initiative also offers bidders an opportunity to acquire objects associated with presidential engagements while contributing to welfare initiatives. In doing so, the auction transforms ceremonial mementoes into a means of supporting a broader social cause, fostering a sense of community and social responsibility among participants. As the auction progresses, it highlights the potential for cultural artefacts to serve dual purposes: preserving heritage and promoting social welfare.

Overall, the E-Upahaar auction stands as a testament to the richness of India's northeast, providing a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation while simultaneously contributing to the welfare of various communities. By participating in this auction, bidders are not just acquiring unique pieces of art; they are also becoming part of a larger narrative that celebrates and supports the diverse cultural landscape of India.