Whittling Wonders from the Wild: PM Modi Hails Uttarakhand Artist’s Pine Bark Artistry

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded 65-year-old physically challenged artist Jeevan Chandra Joshi of Haldwani, Uttarakhand, for his wonderful talent for turning pieces of fallen pine bark into stunning pieces of art that capture the spirit of the hills and their culture. Addressing Joshi during Mann Ki Baat, Modi described him as an inspiration alive whose imagination and strength of character become evident even when disabled by polio in early childhood that prevented him from moving about but never his imagination.

 

Joshi’s unique art form, known as ‘Baget,’ involves meticulously crafting miniature sculptures from dry pine bark, depicting Uttarakhand’s folk instruments, temples, and daily life. Modi praised how Joshi transforms what is often seen as useless forest debris into heritage pieces, capturing the very essence of the region’s culture. The Prime Minister highlighted that the story of Joshi is an example of the strength of intent and determination, adding, "Artists like Jeevan Joshi remind us that regardless of what the situation is, if the intention is strong, nothing is impossible. His name is Jeevan and he has actually shown what it means to live life.".

 

Joshi’s work not only preserves Uttarakhand’s heritage but also inspires environmental awareness and pride among younger generations.

 

Source: Times of India, Deccan Herald, Economic Times