Mandi (Munish Sood)
Tej Ram Soni, the master artisan known for crafting precise and intricate models of temples and historical structures using bamboo splinters, passed away on Friday after a prolonged illness.
The 76-year-old artiste, hailing from Pangna in Mandi district’s Karsog subdivision, leaves behind a rich legacy that brought Himachal Pradesh’s bamboo craftsmanship into the limelight.
Tej Ram Soni’s artistic journey began in 1990 when he crafted a stunningly accurate model of the ancient Mahamaya Kot Temple in Pangna. Using only bamboo splinters and Fevicol, he created a miniature version so precise that it became an instant sensation among locals.
Journey from goldsmith to master craftsman
Encouraged by the overwhelming appreciation, Soni expanded his craft, recreating models of historical landmarks such as the Mandi Clock Tower and Parashar Temple.
His meticulous attention to detail ensured that his models bore no discrepancies in measurement, making them sought-after pieces of art.
His growing reputation caught the attention of Tarun Shridhar, the then Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, who was deeply impressed by Soni’s craftsmanship.
As a result, Soni was commissioned to craft VIP mementos for the prestigious International Shivratri Fair. The assignment proved to be a turning point in his career, bringing both financial success and widespread recognition.
Rise to fame and international recognition
Following the Shivratri Fair, demand for Tej Ram Soni’s models surged. He decided to leave behind his ancestral profession as a goldsmith and dedicated himself entirely to bamboo artistry.
His work gained immense popularity across the state, leading to exhibitions at major national and international events, including International Shivratri Fair, Mandi; Lavi Fair, Rampur; Kullu Dussehra; Ministry of Textiles’ Handicrafts Market and Surajkund Mela, Haryana.
His artistic excellence was such that one of his disciples’ husbands later received the prestigious Padma Shri award based on his contributions to this craft.
Despite his growing fame, Soni remained a humble artisan, tirelessly working to meet the ever-increasing demand for his models. His craftsmanship not only earned him respect in the art community but also helped preserve and promote bamboo craftsmanship as a significant part of Himachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage.
Town in mourning
Following his demise, Pangna market remained closed as a mark of respect. Several local leaders, organisations and community members expressed their condolences.
Among them were representatives from the Pangna panchayat, Pangna Business Association, Mahamaya Temple Committee, Suket Sanskriti Sahitya and Jan Kalyan Manch, Patanjali Yogpeeth.
Tej Ram Soni’s passing marks the end of an era in bamboo craftsmanship. His contributions to the field have left an indelible mark, and his models will continue to inspire future generations of artisans.
