The Goddess in making
Photo Credit: Satavisha Chakraborty, Ria Mukherjee, Ujjal Debnath
Kumartuli is a traditional potters’ quarter in northern Kolkata. The place is famous as a sculpting hot-spot which not only manufactures clay idols for various festivals but also regularly exports them. Mahalaya, the first day of Devi paksha brings with it the flavour of the biggest festival for Bongs, and is the day Devi Durga is believed to have descended to earth to annihilate all evils. (Satavisha Chakraborty)
I once wandered in the narrow alleys of north Kolkata, admiring the Gods and Goddess of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Seeped in the quaint charm of the lazy afternoon I was left unfulfilled and longing for more. The streets of Kolkata sing me so many songs! Can you hear the music?
(Ria Mukherjee)
Walking down Kumartuli’s narrow lanes can be a fun-filled activity for any appreciating eye. Watching the making of Goddess Durga gives one the warm feeling of the approaching days of Bengal’s largest celebration – Durga Puja. (Ujjal Debnath)