Vummidi Ethirajulu, a prominent figure in the Indian jewellery industry, died at the age of 99. He gained national attention recently for his role in crafting the 'Sengol,' a historic sceptre that was installed in the new Parliament building by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during its inauguration in 2023.

The Sengol, which holds significant historical and symbolic weight, was originally presented to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, to mark the transfer of power from the British. Ethirajulu, along with his family firm, Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers, was commissioned to recreate the sceptre for the new legislative chamber. The installation of the Sengol became a focal point of the inauguration ceremony, intended to connect the modern parliamentary structure with India's ancient traditions and post-independence history.

Prime Minister Modi publicly mourned the loss, noting the significance of Ethirajulu's craftsmanship. While the event was widely covered as a moment of national pride, the historical accuracy and political symbolism surrounding the Sengol's origin story remained a subject of broader debate among historians and political commentators during its initial installation. However, the news of Ethirajulu's passing has been met with tributes from various political figures who highlighted his dedication to traditional Indian artistry.