Kolkata Artisans Keep a Generational Tradition Alive in Visakhapatnam Ahead of Navaratri
As Navaratri approaches, Visakhapatnam is once again graced by a beloved tradition. For over 20 years, skilled artisans from Kolkata have traveled to the city to craft intricate, handcrafted Durga idols. These artisans uphold a centuries-old craft that blends devotion with artistry, ensuring the tradition continues to thrive.
Durga Puja celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. It’s not only a time for grand celebrations, but also a period for deep reflection and worship. For these artisans, the idols they create are more than just sculptures—they are spiritual symbols that connect the community to its rich cultural and religious heritage.
Binay Pal, a senior artisan, has been part of this tradition for nearly 25 years. “I started at 14,” he recalls. “At 25, I first came to Vizag for Dasara. Now, at 50, I’m still here, still crafting idols.” Each year, Binay and his team arrive in May and stay in Visakhapatnam for almost five months, working tirelessly on each Kolkata-style Durga idol. This labor-intensive process requires patience, skill, and dedication.
This year, the team crafted 125 idols, with 116 already sold. The idols are priced between Rs 5,000 and Rs 2 lakh, with most orders coming from long-standing customers who value the authenticity of the craft. The idols range in height from 2 to 11 feet and are often cherished as family heirlooms, passed down through generations.
Creating these idols is an art that requires careful attention to detail. “We start with basic materials like grass, sticks, and sand,” explains Binay. “Then, we shape, dry, paint, and decorate the idols. Today, we use spray paint for finer details and add jewelry for finishing touches.” Their commitment to authenticity is evident in their choice of materials. Instead of plaster of Paris, they use sand from the Ganga River, and even the tiger at Goddess Durga’s feet is made from scratch using soft white cloth that is shaped and painted by hand.
Raju, another team member, emphasizes the importance of honoring tradition while adapting to modern needs. “We respect the tradition, but we also adapt to the times,” he says. His children are learning the craft as well, ensuring that this legacy is passed down to the next generation.
The relationship between the artisans and their customers is built on trust and respect. One family from the Old Post Office area, originally from Kolkata, is celebrating their 96th Durga Puja this year. To mark the occasion, they’ve ordered a Rs 2 lakh idol. “For us, it’s not just business,” says Raju. “It’s about honoring the tradition.”
During the season, 18 artisans work in Visakhapatnam, but the team grows to 60 in May, with young apprentices eager to learn the craft. This expansion not only preserves the tradition but also ensures that the next generation of artisans can continue the work.
As Visakhapatnam prepares for another round of Durga Puja celebrations, the arrival of these Kolkata-based artisans is a reminder of the timeless nature of craftsmanship, community, and cultural heritage.