In a proud moment for Goa, artisan Amar L Shet from Mayem village in Bicholim taluka; has won the National Handicrafts Award 2025 in the Terracotta and Pottery category. He is the first Goan artisan to receive the prestigious national recognition in this category.
The awards, conferred by the Government of India, recognise master craftspersons for their exceptional skill, creativity and contribution to the country’s rich handicraft heritage. A total of 17 National Handicrafts Awards were announced this year by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), under the Ministry of Textiles.
Shet has been honoured for his outstanding clay artwork depicting the traditional Goan theme of Shri Devi Kelbai Malyachi Jatra at Mayem, celebrating the state’s cultural and religious traditions through terracotta and pottery.
A talented young artist, the 35-year-old is known for his distinctive clay murals, terracotta idols and contemporary clay-based designs. His passion for art and clay craftsmanship was inherited from his father, the late Ladu Shet. In addition to learning the traditional techniques of clay and terracotta work, he further honed his skills through technical training at the Central Village Pottery Institute in Khanapur, Karnataka.
The national recognition marks a significant achievement for Goa’s traditional handicraft sector and acknowledges Shet’s contribution to preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage through innovative clay art. At 35, he is also among the youngest artisans to receive the award.
Shet will receive the award from the President of India at a ceremony scheduled to be held in New Delhi on December 9, 2026, along with the other awardees.
The award comprises a cash prize of ₹1 lakh, a shawl, a certificate and a Tamrapatra.
