Mandip Paul and Pradip Kumar Ghosh: Innovating Durga Idol Making in Assam
In Dhubri, Assam, Mandip Paul, a fine arts graduate and teacher, is revolutionizing his family’s traditional Hindu idol-making business. His family has been crafting Durga idols since the 1970s at Vivekananda Studio, founded by his grandfather, Narayan Chandra Paul. Mandip, who teaches at Don Bosco School in Guwahati, balances his teaching with his artistic pursuits. He aims to blend tradition with modern artistry, incorporating styles like Kolkata’s Kumartuli and creating the tallest Nataraj-style Durga idol. Mandip hopes to start a business based on this family tradition.
Meanwhile, Pradip Kumar Ghosh, another artist from Dhubri, has crafted a five-foot-tall Durga idol from over 8,000 discarded plastic bottle caps. Displayed at Charmian Road’s Durga Puja Pandal, this idol symbolizes sustainability and raises awareness about plastic pollution. Ghosh, known for eco-friendly creations, emphasizes art’s role in promoting environmental responsibility. His work has been praised for its meaningful message about climate issues.
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava, is a major festival in Eastern India, celebrating the goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. It is widely observed in states like West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha.
Doubts Revealed
Durga Idol -: A Durga idol is a statue or representation of Goddess Durga, who is worshipped during the Durga Puja festival, especially in Eastern India.
Dhubri, Assam -: Dhubri is a town in the state of Assam, which is located in the northeastern part of India. It is known for its cultural diversity and historical significance.
Kumartuli -: Kumartuli is a famous neighborhood in Kolkata, West Bengal, known for its traditional potters who create beautiful clay idols, especially for Durga Puja.
Sustainability -: Sustainability means using resources in a way that does not harm the environment and ensures that they are available for future generations. It often involves recycling and reducing waste.
Plastic Pollution -: Plastic pollution refers to the accumulation of plastic objects and particles in the environment, which harms wildlife, marine life, and human health. It is a major environmental issue worldwide.
Durga Puja -: Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival celebrated in Eastern India, especially in West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha. It honors the goddess Durga and involves elaborate rituals, cultural performances, and community gatherings.