Pannalal Soni

Pannalal Soni, aged 44, hails from Rajmahal Road in Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, where he continues a generational tradition of artistry passed down from his father, who also served as his guru. Despite a lack of formal education beyond high school, Pannalal's lifelong passion for art led him to forego further studies, opting instead to immerse himself fully in his craft. His dedication has been duly recognized through prestigious awards such as the Rajistriye Vishwa Karma Pratham Puruskar and district-level accolades, earned through impressive displays at various exhibitions and craft fairs across the region.

Fueled by a love for creativity and innovation, Pannalal finds joy in crafting new designs, particularly those with practical or decorative utility, such as his renowned bullock cart masterpiece. His artistic repertoire spans from traditional motifs like Ganesh Ji to contemporary interpretations, always striving to capture the essence of ancient practices while adapting to modern tastes. Despite facing challenges, including financial constraints exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Pannalal's unwavering determination and resilience have kept him afloat, inspiring others to embrace and appreciate the rich cultural heritage embedded within his craft.