Potters in Reasi and Assam Keep Traditional Craft Alive for Diwali
In Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir, potters are busy crafting eco-friendly earthen lamps for the Diwali festival. Pottery, an ancient Indian craft, involves shaping clay into diyas, or oil lamps, which are used to light homes during Diwali. Potter Ram Saroop shared, “We have an order for 20,000 lamps and started work 20 days before Diwali. This festival brings us joy and employment.”
Meanwhile, in Assam’s Jorhat district, the Kumar community in Bhitor Kokila village is preserving their 200-year-old pottery tradition. This craft is a primary livelihood for the 120 families in the village. Mitali Kalita, a resident, explained, “Women create clay utensils, while men collect clay and refine the products by firing them. Our village has maintained this tradition for 150-200 years.”
However, the Kumar community faces challenges due to declining pottery markets and difficulties in obtaining suitable soil. Pabitra Kalita, another resident, expressed concern about the future of their traditional livelihood. Hiromai Kalita requested government support to help preserve their heritage.
Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. This year, it will be celebrated on Amavasya, the 15th day of Kartik.
Doubts Revealed
Reasi -: Reasi is a district in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for its beautiful landscapes and cultural heritage.
Assam -: Assam is a state in northeastern India, famous for its tea plantations, wildlife, and rich cultural traditions.
Diwali -: Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is a major Hindu festival celebrated in India. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Earthen lamps -: Earthen lamps, also called ‘diyas’, are small oil lamps made from clay. They are traditionally used during Diwali to decorate homes and temples.
Kumar community -: The Kumar community is a group of people in India known for their traditional pottery skills. They have been making pottery for many generations.
Amavasya -: Amavasya is the new moon night in the Hindu lunar calendar. Diwali is celebrated on this night, marking the darkest night of the month.
