How is Varanasi’s pink enamel artisan crafting a BrahMos missile replica?

Varanasi, May 19 (NationPress) In the spiritual heart of India, where the Ganga flows and temples resonate with chants, a remarkable blend of tradition and modern technology is emerging. Kunj Bihari Singh, a national award-winning pink enamel artisan from Varanasi’s Visheshwarganj area, has skillfully created a stunning replica of the BrahMos missile - a testament to India’s pride in its defence strength - utilizing the ancient technique of meenakari (pink enamelling).

This model, embellished with silver and gold accents, is attracting national attention and igniting patriotic enthusiasm.

The BrahMos missile, representing India’s advanced military capabilities, recently made headlines again after being used in India’s precision strikes during Operation Sindoor, a decisive counterterrorism response following the Pahalgam terror incident. Driven by admiration for the bravery of India’s armed forces, the artisan chose to pay homage to their valor through his craftsmanship: enamel, metal, and fire.

Kunj Bihari Singh shared with IANS, "After the Pahalgam attack, our courageous soldiers delivered a strong response. I wanted to honor their bravery through my art. The BrahMos missile embodies India's power and technological edge. Crafting this replica is my tribute to our jawans."

Handcrafted with silver and featuring traditional pink enamelling - a method deeply embedded in Varanasi's artistic legacy, the BrahMos model has resonated with both collectors and patriots. To date, Singh has sold over 150 units, priced between Rs 10,000 and Rs 20,000. He is now looking into creating more affordable options to make these pieces accessible to a broader audience without sacrificing quality.

Singh leads a team of 20 artisans who are working tirelessly to fulfill the rising demand.

"We are overwhelmed with orders from across the country. People desire to showcase the model in their homes and offices as a representation of national pride," he stated.

The combination of modern military symbolism with centuries-old craftsmanship has resulted in a unique collectible that resonates with contemporary patriotic sentiments.

Worldwide, the BrahMos missile, co-developed by India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPOM, is gaining increasing interest from nations across Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Renowned for its precision, speed, and versatility in being launched from land, air, sea, or submarines, the BrahMos ranks as one of the most formidable cruise missiles globally.

However, the international sale of the missile is stringently regulated. As a 50:50 joint venture between India and Russia under the BrahMos Aerospace banner, any decision to export the missile to a third country necessitates mutual agreement. This limitation ensures that the missile’s sales remain strategically controlled.