New Delhi, October 11 (Daily Kiran) : The Sharadiya Navratri festival is a significant time for devotees, who worship Goddess Durga over nine days, observing fasts and rituals. But few know that the idol-making process is steeped in tradition and artistry, requiring months of hard work and a special blend of clay.
In recent years, the trend of eco-friendly idols has surged, aimed at preventing pollution in water bodies post-festival. The creation of Durga idols involves a mix of different types of clay, primarily Ganga clay, Doash clay, and Belar clay, each contributing unique properties.
Kumartuli, a traditional settlement located north of Kolkata with a history of around 300 years, serves as a hub of art, faith, and economics during Durga Puja. The idol-making process begins months in advance, typically with a special ritual on the last day of the Bengali year, known as Chaitra Sankranti. The initial structure of the goddess is created using bamboo and straw, referred to as ‘Kathamo.’ This framework is reinforced with straw sourced from the Sundarbans and bound with jute ropes.
The idol-making technique in Kumartuli is based on the ‘Terracotta’ method, which utilizes sun-dried, unbaked clay. Historically a male-dominated profession, it is now witnessing a shift as women artisans like China Pal and Kakoli Pal break stereotypes, showcasing their skills and marking a significant social change in the area.
The idol is shaped through multiple layers of clay application. Scientifically and symbolically, three types of clay are primarily used. Entel clay, a sticky and hard black clay, is first mixed with water and applied to the straw structure to fill gaps and provide a solid base.
Ganga clay, sourced from riverbeds, is soft and smooth, used to give the goddess’s body its final form and softness. Once the clay dries, the idols are adorned with colors. Throughout this process, the goddess’s eyes remain covered. On the sacred day of Mahalaya, which signifies the end of the Pitripaksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha, artisans carve the goddess’s eyes amidst the sound of conch shells. This ritual, known as ‘Chakshudaan,’ is believed to infuse life into the idol.
Historically, two styles dominate the adornment of the idols. The first is ‘Shola Saaj,’ made from the cores of a white aquatic plant found in marshy areas, which is entirely natural and biodegradable. The second style, known as ‘Daak ka Saaj,’ emerged during colonial times when wealthy landlords imported special silver foils and threads from Germany to decorate their idols.
However, this grand festival faces a serious challenge of water pollution. After immersion, synthetic colors containing plaster of Paris (POP) and heavy metals like lead and mercury have severely harmed rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna, as well as other aquatic ecosystems.
To address this crisis, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) have implemented strict eco-friendly guidelines. The changes in idol-making practices are becoming increasingly evident.
Previously, synthetic and lead-based colors were used for painting idols, posing significant risks to water quality. Now, artisans are opting for natural, water-soluble plant-based colors that do not harm aquatic life. Additionally, natural binders made from tamarind seeds are being utilized to ensure that artificial chemical powders adhere to the idols.
Moreover, to protect natural water sources, artificial ponds and specific tanks are being constructed. Municipal bodies like the Kolkata Municipal Corporation have created ghats where idols are dissolved using powerful water jets.
Waste generated during this process, including flowers (Nirmalya), is separated for composting, while water is sent to sewage treatment plants (STPs). The trend of using reusable idols made from fiberglass is also on the rise, aimed at reducing pollution and being exported abroad.
In 2021, UNESCO recognized Kolkata’s Durga Puja as part of the prestigious list of ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.’
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