Kurigram:With Diwali and Shyama Puja on the horizon, the potters' community in Phulbari upazila of Kurigram is bustling with activity. Artisans and their families are engaged day and night in crafting earthen lamps, known locally as diyari, to meet the increasing demand during this festive season.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the potters are busy preparing clay, shaping the lamps on wheels, and drying the finished products. This age-old tradition sees men, women, and even children working together to meet the festive rush, as earthen lamps continue to be a staple for illuminating homes and worship spaces alongside modern electric lights.
In Chandrakhana Kumarpara, a village renowned for its pottery heritage, potters are working diligently to fulfill orders before the celebrations. The village is experiencing a surge in business, with buyers arriving from local and neighboring markets. Artisans report demand for their lamps in areas such as Borobari, Noyarhat, and Gagla Bazar.
Among the artisans are Bishnu Chandra Pal and Tumpa Rani Pal, aiming to produce 20,000 lamps this year. After 13 days of intense labor, they have sold 10,000 lamps at Taka 50 per 100 pieces and plan to sell the rest at Taka 60-70 per 100 pieces in local markets. Despite spending Taka 4,000 on materials, they expect a profit of around Taka 6,000.
Other artisans like Tapas Kumar Pal, Ananda Kumar Pal, and Beren Chandra Pal, have similar production targets. However, they face challenges as the costs of raw materials rise, yet selling prices remain stagnant, reducing their income compared to 15 to 20 years ago.
Around 100 families in Chandrakhana Kumarpara rely on pottery as their livelihood, but decreasing returns have led to financial hardships. Despite this, they remain committed to preserving their ancestral craft. After the festive season, they will resume producing traditional earthenware such as cooking pots and utensils.
Kartik Chandra Sarkar and Sunil Chandra Roy, local leaders, highlighted the significance of Shyama Puja and Diwali in boosting lamp demand, as devotees illuminate temples and homes. While the festive season brings more orders, it also underscores the challenges facing the traditional pottery trade. Potters hope their craft will endure in the face of changing times.