In order to commemorate the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) landslide victory in the recently held Assembly elections in Gujarat, a jeweller has carved a bust of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Carved in 18-carat gold the bust weighed 156 gm - reference to the 156 seats won by the BJP in the 182-member assembly - said Basant Bohra, owner of the jewellery-making firm, Radhika Chains, reported news agency PTI.
The bust has become an instant hit among the masses and many are interested in purchasing it, but the jeweller has not decided to sell his creation as yet.
"I am a fan of Narendra Modi and wanted to make something as a tribute to him. It took around three months for nearly 20 artisans to make this bust at our factory. I am satisfied with the final outcome. There is no price tag because it is not for sale as of now," said Mr Bohra, according to PTI.
Gold worth Rs 11 lakh has been used to make the bust that measures 4.5 inch in length and 3 inch in width.
Bohra, a native of Rajasthan who settled in Surat for 20 years said that it took around 3 months, 15 artisans and designers to make the bust of PM Narendra Modi.
The jeweller claims to be an admirer of the PM and said that they have spent around Rs 10.5 lakh for the bust, reported The Indian Express.
The product was ready by December but after the thumping victory of BJP in the Gujarat assembly elections, certain modifications were made to the sculpture so that the final weight was cut to measure 156 gm.
Elections to the 182-member Gujarat assembly was held in December, 2022 in two phases. The votes were counted on December 8 and BJP emerged victorious with 156 seats.