Udupi: Metal Carving, engraving craftsman Amir Hamza No More

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Jul 16: P S Amir Hamza(72), a resident of Paniyadi here and an artificer famously known for his intricate metal carvings across various maths, temples, daivastanas etc., of the twin districts, breathed his last due to ill health at Manipal hospital on Tuesday, July 16.

Hamza had entered the field of metal art at the age of 12. He had his workshop on Vadiraja Road in Udupi. He was the chosen craftsman to attend to requirements of Srikrishna Math and other Maths in Udupi of intriicate metal carvings, gold ornaments, silver ornaments etc.,  He was adept at making finely engraved gold and silver artefacts and ornaments as per the requirements of various temples and daivastanas in tune with their specific religious requirements, without deviating the customary needs. He excelled in  sculpting Hindu Gods and demi-gods in a way even Hindu sculptors and artificers were unable to. He was known all over the state. People requiring his services came from other neighbouring states too.

His father Sheikh Piroo Saheb used to do this work in the court of the erstwhile Mysore royals. The sculpted and carved items made by his father were then handed over to the respective customers like temples by Amir Hamza by following the traditional ritual requirements there. Hamza even knew palmistry. He was into social service in a big way and was a man of fine human qualities. Hamza was a donor and guided and helped scores of people to come up in life. His talent and efficiency were recognised by various organisations, Maths, temples, departments, organisations etc., and he was felicitated many a time. Articles highlighting his services to Hinduism had appeared in many magazines and newspapers.

Hamza is survived by wife, three sons and four daughters. His two sons Maqbool and Altaf are trained in this profession, and continuing in their father's footprints. Various swamijis, minister Dr V S Acharya, MLA Raghupati Bhat, ex MLA U R Sabhapathi etc., have offered their condelences upon the demise of this great human being, to the bereaved family.