As the countdown to Durga Puja begins, there is a scurry of activities in North Kolkata’s potters’ hub, locally known as Patuapara in Kumartuli. Artisans are busy adding final touches to the idols. Rows of shops line the lanes and by-lanes that branch out from
Mother Goddess Durga channels positive energy to combat evil, thereby establishing harmony. This is why every year, the entire state of Bengal comes together to celebrate her arrival on Martyalok. As the Asuravinashini (demon slayer), she has always symbolized matriarchy. Sometimes she is portrayed as
India is a hotpot of a variety of cultures, ethnicities, religions, and races and celebrates many festivals that are unique to the sub-continent. Rakhi, or Raksha Bandhan, is a celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters. Raksha Bandhan in Sanskrit means "the knot of
Bengal has never ascribed to the idea of dolls being nothing but playthings for children. Dolls have always been culturally and traditionally important to the people of this land. In every district of Bengal, there is a tradition of making dolls that has been passed
Although Kolkata is well known for being a hotspot for artistic talents, the majority of these treasures are still relatively unknown. Finding them is fascinating and enjoyable since it broadens your perspective. The City of Joy is all about finding contentment in the little things
Padma Shri Takdira Begum, Birbhum If poet Jasimuddin’s Nakshi Kanthar Maath depicted the love story of Shaju and Rupai, a different tale is crafted on the silk and tussar wonders of Bengal, be it a saree, or a blouse or a scarf --- the Nakshi Kantha
These dolls do not dance or make facial expressions, they are static, rustic, yet charming, carrying a legacy of art and crafts tradition of Bengal down centuries. The Gala Putul and Babu Putul of Bengal reflect a lost era, they carry the simple charm of
In the last few decades, we have heard a lot about miniature arts and crafts. Like any other buzzing trend, it has also taken a back seat by now. But have you ever come across a painting that has been done upon something as tiny
The idyllic villages of West Bengal, with their pristine natural beauty and refreshing ambiance, have an irresistible allure, drawing in a swarm of weary city dwellers who yearn for an escape from the suffocating pollution and deafening noise that define metropolitan life. Amidst the rustling
Craft items made from Water Hyacinth There is a Bengali folk song that goes like this: “Thakile dobakhana, hobe kochuripana/ Baghe horine khana eksathe khabe na/ Swabhab toh kakhono jabe na…” (Wherever there is unguarded water body, water hyacinths will invariably grow and take over. Tigers and deer