Art of making idols in stake in age of technology

Boxanagar:

The art of making clay idols is in stake in the age of modern technology. In spite of that the clay artists are struggling hard to survive with their art. The real condition of clay artists came out by the interview of clay artist Nepal Pal with our local correspondent at Manikya Nagar. Pal said that earning became a challenging job by this profession and it will be harder to survive by this profession in days to come.

He came here from Bangladesh in 1971 at time of Liberation war of Bangladesh and started clay art since 12 years age. At present he appeared 88 years. But his profession is in stake after arrival of plastic, nylon and Teri line. The things became so challenging that he neither can hold the business nor can leave it.

He further added, “Earlier people had a demand for clay idol. Bamboo, dry grass and jute were available at that time. The price of the items was within reach of people. Besides, labour was also available at that time.”

He said, “Now situation has been changed. I am still working now with sons and daughters by giving priority to the tradition.” He said that his elder son Tapan Pal extended hand of cooperation to maintain the tradition. This year Pal got order of 12 idols under Boxanagar R.D. Block. He is working round the clock day and night with his relentless labour in spite of his bending body due to old age as it is the high time of giving last finishing touch to the clay idol. He opined that surviving this art would be impossible if the government does to come forward to arrange training, provide loan to encourage the clay artists.

 


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