GAURIPUR, Nov 13 - The clay artisans of greater Gauripur area, mainly of Asharikandhi, Chaurangimore and Kumarpara, had been earning handsomely by selling various types of clay products for years. But, this year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they have lost all hopes and their frustration is growing.
Generally, they used to sell clay pots, earthen lamps, etc, during the long festive season, comprising Durga Puja, Kali Puja and Diwali. This year, however, due to the pandemic Durga Puja and Lakshmi Puja were celebrated performing only the religious rituals, without any fanfare. Celebration of Kali Puja and Dipawali too remains uncertain due to restrictions imposed by the administration. Though they have made a large number of earthen lamps to sell on the occasion of Diwali, the situation is not at all favourable for them.
Mukhlal Kumhar and Bindu Kumhar of Kumarpara area said they will not be able to compensate the cost of production as they have to purchase clay of a special quality, besides wood and coal for burning the clay items later. They have made an impassioned appeal to the government to come to their rescue, and help them carry on with their ancestral profession so that they can still support their families.
With the young generation not at all interested in pursuing this traditional profession, the seasoned artisans of the area are looking at an uncertain future.
