SILCHAR, Nov 6 - Bappan Paul, a partially blind yet passionate potter from Srikona on the outskirts of Silchar enjoys Diwali, the Festival of Lights as much as anyone with no visual complication does. Despite his blurry vision, this middle-aged craftsman with his deft hands has been shaping earthen lamps and other clay items over the past many years.
Found while giving shape to diyas at his residence, Bappan told The Assam Tribune on Monday, �My right eye is completely affected since childhood due to pox. Somehow I manage to see with my left eye, but cannot distinguish colours. It is my passion that keeps me going and during the peak season around 1 lakh earthen lamps are supplied to the market, which helps me earn my living.�
Asked whether the modern-day electronic lights pose a threat to the traditional clay diyas, Bappan reacted by saying �the attractive tony lights are available at cheap rates which have certainly hit the sale of the clay diyas. Yet we are doing our best to continue making diyas throughout the year.� He urged the Government to look into their plight and extend assistance to save the virtually oblivious craft.
