Assam pottery clusters increase production for Diwali and Kali Puja
Artisans in Asharikandi and Heerapara are working overtime to supply millions of earthen lamps for the festive season.
Artisans in the Asharikandi and Heerapara pottery clusters of Assam are working extended hours to meet the demand for Diwali and Kali Puja, according to Urban Acres.
In the Dhubri district village of Asharikandi, approximately 160 artisan families are involved in seasonal work. Local artisan Debdas Paul said nearly 500 artisans produce close to 15 crore earthen lamps during a two-month period to meet festive needs.
In Heerapara village, located in the Ramdia area of Kamrup district, pottery-making families have also increased their working hours. Artisan Bimala Barman stated that 90 families in the village manufactured about 5 crore earthen lamps over a period of one and a half months.
The lamps are supplied in large quantities to wholesalers rather than through permanent retail shops. Kamala Kanta Das of Hajo noted that the festival serves as a vital income source for traditional potter families.
These local makers face competition from terracotta lamps from Nabadwip in West Bengal and low-cost Chinese decorative items. Debdas Paul said artisans remain determined to maintain their market position through traditional craftsmanship.
The production push is expected to continue through the Diwali and Kali Puja period to complete orders for wholesale buyers.