It is being dubbed the second-most expensive suit in the world.
While the first one has nearly 500 half carat diamonds etched to it, this one just bears the Indian Prime Minister’s name over and over.
When Narendra Modi wore a tailored-fit, navy suit, with his name embroidered in golden pinstripe, he had the whole nation talking about the outrageous fashion faux pas. Wearing that while meeting the U.S. President Barack Obama in January, made the sartorial choice even more provocative.
Opposition leaders accused him of being narcissistic, one politician even labeled him a “megalomaniac.” Much of the Indian public wasn’t too pleased either, questioning his image of a humble man he proudly portrayed during the 2014 general elections.
The now infamous monogrammed suit, has gone on auction, with bidders from all over the country tussling for the prized possession.
The bidding price has so far reached U.S. $201,335 – more than 12 times the original price of U.S.$16,084 – and officials expect it to shoot up even further before the bidding formally ends tomorrow.
The proceeds of this year’s auction are supposed to go towards Modi’s ambitious pet project of cleaning India’s holy river, the Ganges.
The suit is just one of the 455 items that are up for grabs. Other items include gifts and mementos that Modi received from foreign dignitaries and national leaders.
According to organizers, the auction which is being held in Modi’s home state of Gujarat has been extremely successful.
“There is a lot of interest among the general public, and we are seeing multiple bids for a lot of items,” said Rajender Kumar, District Magistrate of the city of Surat, where the bidding is taking place.
Modi held similar auctions when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat and raised funds for girl child education in the state.