President Pranab Mukherjee has presented the prestigious Shilp Guru award to a local craftsman for his exquisite marble inlay work. Rafiquddin, a resident of Gokulpura Basti in Agra district, was praised by the President for creating excellent floral designs on marble plates, table tops and decorative pieces for more than 25 years.

Mukherjee conferred the award on him at a function in Uttar Pradesh’s Vigyan Bhavan. Rafiquddin was earlier given an award in 1987 by the development commissioner of handicrafts, it said. Born in a family of artisans specialising in Jardozi (sewing with gold string), Rafiquddin was more inclined towards marble inlay work.

Did You Know???

• The crafts of India are diverse, rich in history and religion.
• The craft of each state in India reflect the influence of different empires. Throughout centuries, crafts have been embedded as a culture and tradition within rural communities.
• Rajasthan is recognized by its Royal heritage is a prominent and well-established craft industry.
• Gujarat is renowned for its textile production methods.
• Assam is recognized for its creative use of raw materials in textiles and crafts.