Shailja Jha
Patna: The cultural tapestry of Chhath Puja in Patna is intricately woven with the ancient art of pottery, a craft that breathes life into clay and shapes vessels integral to the festival’s rituals. PatnaPress delved into the narrow lanes of Patna to converse with local potters who continue to uphold traditions and foster a sense of community through their craft.
Rani Kumari (48), a resident of Patna and a skilled pottery artist, shared her perspective, stating, “Our pottery shop experiences an annual surge in demand during Chhath Puja. The handmade earthen pots are preferred for rituals, believed to carry a unique purity and auspiciousness. Witnessing this continued reverence for traditional craftsmanship is truly heartening.”
Chhath Puja not only serves as a guardian of pottery traditions but also acts as a crucial economic lifeline for local artisans and shopkeepers. Sunil Gupta (55), another proprietor of a pottery shop, highlighted its economic significance, saying, “This season is pivotal for our business. The demand for earthen pots skyrockets, providing a substantial source of income for our community. It’s a time when the skills passed down from our ancestors truly come to life.”
Sita Devi (61), a resident of Araria who visits Patna annually for her pottery business, expressed a deeper sentiment, stating, “This is not just pottery for us; it’s a legacy, a connection to our roots. Our forefathers did this, and now, we continue the tradition.”
The meticulous crafting of these earthen pots, commonly known as “diyas” or “soop,” involves the skillful hands of local potters who shape and mold the clay with precision to create vessels suitable for the rituals of Chhath Puja. Families eagerly embrace these pots, contributing not only to the festive atmosphere but also to the livelihoods of the artisan community.
Rahul Kumar (16), a third-generation potter and a student residing in Patna, shared his family’s journey, saying, “When my grandmother was young, she used to sit in the shop. Now that she’s old, it’s tough for her to sit for a long time, so I take her place. Luckily, I have school holidays during Chhath Puja. When people buy our pots, they are not just purchasing utensils. They are taking home a piece of our heritage,” reflecting the intergenerational essence embedded in this ancient craft.
