Idol-making is more than reasonable craftsmanship. It is certainty, tradition, and celebration. In Patna, Bihar, there is a minor neighborhood called Kumartuli. In this occurrence, families of skilled workers who celebrate occasions like Durga Puja, Kali Puja, and Saraswati Puja make the insignias. These images are made from clear clay, molded with cherish, and painted with shinning colours.
The story of Idol-Making in Patna’s Kumartuli is a travel from clay to colour. It shows up how tradition meets creative ability. Let us explore how these images are made step by step and why this make is so special.
History of Idol-Making in Patna’s Kumartuli
- Kumartuli suggests “potters’ colony.”
- The word comes from Kumar (potter) and tuli (place).
- This tradition started various a long time ago.
- Artisans moved here to make images for asylums and festivals.
- Even these days, families pass this craftsmanship from one time to the next.
Kumartuli of Patna may not be as celebrated as the one in Kolkata, but it has its have charm. The artisans here work subtly, be that as it may their images bring life to each puja in Bihar.
Read More: Festive Shopping Hotspots in Mumbai’s Busy Markets
Materials Utilized in Idol-Making
The symbols are made with common things. Most of the things come from the soil itself. Common materials include:
- Clay – fragile clay from streams is the base.
- Straw – utilized to make the skeleton or base of the idol.
- Bamboo sticks – strong back to hold the idol.
- Ropes and jute strings – tie the structure tightly.
- Cloth – in a few cases utilized to cover a few time as of late applying clay.
- Colours – ordinary and chemical colours for painting.
- Brushes – to allow fine focuses of intrigued like eyes and lips.
Step-by-Step Plan of Idol-Making
1. Making the Framework
- Artisans utilize bamboo sticks and straw.
- They tie them with rope to shape the base shape.
- This looks like a obnoxious body of the idol.
2. Applying Clay
- Soft stream clay is mixed with water.
- The to start with layer is unforgiving to cover the straw.
- The minute layer is smooth to permit shape.
- Details like hands, stand up to, and decorations are included later.
3. Drying
- The clay image is cleared out in the sun.
- This makes it strong and arranged for colour.
- If it deluges, the drying takes more time.
4. Painting
- A base white paint is associated first.
- Then shinning colours like rosy, yellow, blue, and green are added.
- Eyes are painted uncommonly carefully. This step is called Chokkhu Daan (giving eyes).
- The go up against gets a final touch of shine.
5. Dressing and Decoration
- Clothes, jewels, and crowns are added.
- Glitter, dabs, and sprouts make the image see grand.
- Each image is curiously and full of life.
The Role of Festivals
Idols from Patna’s Kumartuli are in tall ask during:
- Durga Puja – The most prominent celebration, where Goddess Durga’s symbol is made with her family.
- Kali Puja – Angry but dazzling images of Goddess Kali are created.
- Saraswati Puja – Delicate and calm images of Goddess Saraswati are crafted.
- Ganesh Puja – Images of Ace Ganesha are as well made.
These celebrations cannot happen without symbols. The artisans of Kumartuli keep the soul of commitment alive.
Challenges Faced by Artisans
Even in show disdain toward of the truth that idol-making is fabulous, artisans go up against various problems:
- Low pay – They work troublesome, but win less.
- Seasonal work – Ask is as it were in the midst of festivals.
- Rising costs – Clay, colours, and bamboo are costly.
- Modern competition – Readymade images from fabricating plants are cheaper.
- Weather issues – Deluges hurt clay symbols in the midst of drying.
Despite all these issues, artisans continue the make with revere and respect.
Importance of Idol-Making in Culture
- Idol-making is not reasonable work, it is devotion.
- Each symbol is a piece of craftsmanship and faith.
- It keeps antiquated traditions alive.
- It supports various families in Patna.
- It spreads charm in the midst of pujas and festivals.
Why Kumartuli Idols are Special
- Made by hand, with care and skill.
- Each image is extraordinary, no two see the same.
- Local clay and characteristic colours give a unprecedented touch.
- Artisans take after age-old methods.
- Their images show up feeling, greatness, and devotion.
Preserving This Art
To keep this craftsmanship energetic, people and society can help:
- Support artisans by buying adjacent idols.
- Teach more energetic times the craft.
- Provide workshops and training.
- Government can offer help with stores and promotion.
- Use eco-friendly materials for predominant future.
Read Also: Durga Puja Patna: Top Pandals You Can't Miss This Year
Quick Facts about Kumartuli Idol-Making
- Place: Kumartuli, Patna, Bihar
- Main Celebration: Durga Puja
- Main Texture: Stream clay
- Special Step: Depict the eyes (Chokkhu Daan)
- Eco-Friendly: Clay symbols break down in water after puja
Conclusion
The story of Idol-Making in Patna’s Kumartuli is one of craftsmanship, culture, and devotion. From clay to colour, each step shows up resistance, skill, and certainty. These images are not reasonable pictures; they are pictures of tradition, euphoria, and community.
FAQs
Q1. What is Kumartuli in Patna well known for?
Kumartuli in Patna is celebrated for tall quality clay symbols for celebrations like Durga Puja and Kali Puja.
Q2. How are the images made?
They are made with bamboo, straw, and clay. After drying, artisans paint and brighten them with colours, dress, and ornaments.
Q3. Why is clay utilized in idol-making?
Clay is characteristic, fragile, and basic to shape. It is in addition eco-friendly since it breaks up back into the stream after puja.
Q4. Who makes these idols?
Traditional artisans and their families, who pass the inclination from one time to the another, make these idols.
Q5. What is the most basic step in idol-making?
The depict of eyes (Chokkhu Daan) is the most basic step. It is acknowledged that this gives life to the symbol.