The Ministry of Culture has included 31 mementos from Tamil Nadu in the eighth edition of the PM Mementos e-Auction 2026. The online auction showcases the state’s spiritual traditions, classical art, traditional craftsmanship, historical legacy and sporting achievements. The auction is live on the official portal until October 2, 2026.
Key facts
- Total mementos from Tamil Nadu: 31 items
- Auction edition: 8th PM Mementos e-Auction
- Auction deadline: October 2, 2026
- Online portal: https://pmmementos.gov.in
- Collections span sacred traditions, art, craftsmanship, historical figures and sporting memorabilia
Religious and spiritual mementos
The auction includes several pieces linked to Tamil Nadu’s spiritual heritage. A framed footprint from Kanyakumari, presented by the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, is believed to bear the sacred impressions of Goddess Kumari according to traditional belief. A detailed memento depicts Sant Shri Ramanujacharya, the philosopher and theologian, shown in a teaching pose that reflects his intellectual and spiritual contributions to Tamil culture.
Art and craftsmanship items
Traditional artistic forms are well represented in the collection. A Thiruvalluvar Chariot is a handcrafted model inspired by the traditional temple chariots of Tamil Nadu. The auction features a Nataraja statue in metal, showing Lord Shiva in the cosmic dance pose. Tanjore-style artworks are included, such as a Veena artwork decorated with gold foil and Kundan stones, and a traditional Tanjore painting of Lord Murugan. Another piece is a gold-foil depiction of Lord Murugan. A framed devotional work shows Sri Sowmya Narayana Perumal, and a brass memento depicts the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple. South Indian angavastras with zari embroidery and woven borders represent the state’s textile traditions.
Sports memorabilia
The collection highlights Tamil Nadu’s sporting excellence through items associated with Paralympic athletes. A badminton racket belonged to Nithya Sre Sivan, a para-badminton player who won a medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. A signed badminton racket is from Thulasimathi Murugesan, who won silver in badminton singles at the Paralympics. Shoes associated with Mariyappan Thangavelu, a three-time Paralympic medallist in high jump, are also part of the auction.
How the PM Mementos e-Auction works
The PM Mementos e-Auction is an annual online event organized by the Ministry of Culture to sell gifts and mementos received by the Prime Minister. Interested buyers can participate in the auction through the official website. The funds generated from such auctions are typically directed towards national causes or charitable purposes as decided by the government.
What this means for you
If you are a collector of Indian cultural artifacts, art enthusiast or sports memorabilia fan, this auction offers authenticated pieces from Tamil Nadu. The deadline to participate is October 2, 2026. You will need to register on the PM Mementos portal to view detailed descriptions and place bids on items of interest. The mementos represent genuine pieces tied to Tamil Nadu’s history, spirituality and contemporary sporting achievements.
What happens next
The auction will conclude on October 2, 2026. Successful bidders will be notified and payment and delivery arrangements will be made according to the terms published on the official auction portal.