Who was Vummidi Ethiraj? Jeweller behind historic Sengol dies at 99

Vummidi Ethiraj, a renowned jeweller from Chennai, passed away on October 21, 2026, at the age of 99. He was a prominent figure in South India's jewellery industry and played a crucial role in crafting the Sengol, a gold-plated silver sceptre, which symbolised the transfer of power from British rule to independent India in 1947.

Ethiraj's family-owned Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers, a 125-year-old business, which continues to uphold traditional jewellery craftsmanship. Born on November 25, 1926, Ethiraj was deeply involved in the creation of the Sengol, which was presented to late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on the eve of India's Independence in 1947. The Sengol was later installed in the new Parliament building in 2023, bringing renewed attention to the artefact and Ethiraj's craftsmanship.

He is survived by his three children and is mourned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, all of whom acknowledged Ethiraj's significant contribution to India's national and cultural heritage.