Pair of Iconic Kangaroo Chairs from Chandigarh Heritage Sold at US Auction

The Historic Auction of Chandigarh's Kangaroo Chairs

In a significant auction held in the United States, a pair of iconic kangaroo chairs from Chandigarh's heritage collection was sold for an impressive $8,500 (approximately Rs 7 lakh). These chairs, designed by Pierre Jeanneret, a prominent architect associated with Project Chandigarh alongside French architect Le Corbusier, hold immense historical and cultural value.

Ajay Jagga's Call for Protection of National Heritage

Advocate Ajay Jagga, a member of the UT Heritage Protection Committee, raised concerns over the auction of valuable heritage articles from Chandigarh in foreign countries. He emphasized the need for creating robust rules and regulations to safeguard these national treasures and prevent their removal beyond India's boundaries. Jagga sought intervention from the Rajya Sabha and relevant authorities to halt such auctions and ensure the return of auctioned heritage items.

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Chandigarh's Connection with the Iconic Kangaroo Chairs

The kangaroo chairs, designed by Pierre Jeanneret in the 1950s during his work on Project Chandigarh, are a testament to the city's architectural and cultural heritage. Their distinct design and historical significance make them valuable pieces of art, attracting attention from collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

 Advocacy for Diplomatic Intervention

Advocate Ajay Jagga actively pursued diplomatic channels by approaching the US embassy and the Secretary General of Rajya Sabha to halt the auction in the United States. His efforts underscore the importance of preserving India's heritage and ensuring that valuable artifacts remain within the country's boundaries.

The auction of Chandigarh's kangaroo chairs in the United States has brought attention to the significance of preserving India's national heritage. As these valuable pieces of cultural history continue to attract interest in international markets, the need for robust rules and regulations to protect and retain such treasures within India becomes more critical. Advocates like Ajay Jagga play a pivotal role in advocating for the protection of national heritage and ensuring its rightful place in the country's cultural legacy.