Tridhara seeks to revive lost culture of handicrafts

Kolkata: "Prakiti Rotone, Sajabo Jotone" is the theme for Tridhara Akal Bodhon Puja committee which entered its 72nd year.

The entire Puja pandal showcases various jute works as Tridhara Akal Bodhon has come up with the idea to promote Bengal's one of the oldest art forms. The doll industry, which was famous in the districts like Nadia, Birbhum and South 24-Parganas, would also be represented at the Puja pandal.

According to a Puja oraniser, valuables that are found in nature would find its place in the Puja pandal under theme — "Prikiti Rotone, Sajabone Jotone". Handicrafts made of jute are extremely valuable in the state.

There will be various models of horses, elephants and others inside the Puja pandal made of jute. The idols are also made of jute. Artist Gouranga Kuila has conceptualized the theme. Various models were prepared at his workshop in Tomluk in East Midnapore. The process of installing the idols and other models at the Puja pandal started one-and-half-months ago.

The jute industry has gained a momentum after Mamata Banerjee government came to power. It is her government that has given a platform to the traditional jute artisans across the state. Various clusters have been set up where people in large numbers are indulging in jute work and preparing various handicraft items from it.

These artisans were eventually given platforms by the state government to sell their products. There had been a decline in the jute industry in the state in the past few years. The state government had laid a great emphasis on this industry for its revival.

Subhojit Chakraborty, cultural convener of the Puja committee said: "We are trying to promote the jute industry of Bengal through our work."

As many as 11 counsel generals of various countries are expected to visit the Puja pandal on 13 October.