Unknown, Unappreciated, Unsung and Unrecognised Talents of India.
The "Paji" of Mandu.
Paji is the honorific title for the elder brother.
Recently we visited Mandav, Mandu as it is known locally and in Madhya Pradesh.
As we were leaving Jahaj Mahal and were on the way to Jal Mahal, we came across a spot where the Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI) was preparing mortar and plaster by mixing lime 'good' (Jaggary) and other building material same way as these ancient monuments were built all those years back.
A couple of stonemasons were also working on a slab of red sandstone. Nearby was something placed under a cover. Through this torn cover I could see something interesting. Requested our guide if we could see what was under this cover.
He was reluctant. On our insistence and request, the local supervisor removed the cover.
Lo and behold! We saw partially completed, an exquisitely crafted scale model of Jahaj Mahal. See the photos.
Partially completed sandstone scale model of Jahaj Mahal.
Partially completed sandstone scale model of Jahaj Mahal.
Finished tiles to be put up on the unfinished right facade are stacked on the right of the model.
Our guide introduced us to one of the stonemasons working. We saw a physically challenged stonemason working on a slab of red sandstone.
He was introduced simply as "Paji". The guide informed us that the scale model we were seeing is being made by Paji.
Being asked his name we were told that everyone simply called him 'Paji' - The elder brother.
Paji, the sculptor, artist and craftsman of the Red sandstone scale model of Jahaj Mahal.
Paji, the Unknown, the Unappreciated and the Unsung, unrecognised talent of India.
To me, Paji represented the Unknown, the Unappreciated and the Unsung and unrecognised talent of India.
I only hope the authorities bestow on Paji what his talent and craftsmanship deserve.
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