Traditional Clay Artisans Thrive During Mysuru’s Gowri-Ganesha Festival

Quick Summary

• Conventional artisans in Mysuru are producing eco-friendly clay idols for the gowri-Ganesha festival using clay sourced from rural areas.
• Despite competition from Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols, demand for environmentally friendly options is increasing due to public awareness and local goverment support.
• Puttaswamy, vice-president of the Ganesha Gowri Eco-Friendly Idol manufacturers’ Association, noted the significance of this craft in preserving heritage and sustaining livelihoods.He has practiced idol-making for over five decades.
• techniques include using vegetable-based paints to ensure environmental sustainability.
• Artisans face rising costs; the price of a tractor load of clay rose from ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 last year. Delivery charges further increase costs up to ₹15,000 per load.
• There are currently around 50 families involved in traditional idol-making in Mysuru; numbers have dwindled compared to earlier years when artisans were concentrated mainly in Kumbarageri on Ashoka Road.
• Clay is carefully chosen from specific locations like krishnaraja Sagar backwaters and T. Narsipura to avoid issues such as cracking during crafting processes.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The shift toward eco-friendly practices among Mysuru’s traditional artisans reflects growing environmental consciousness at both societal and governmental levels. Initiatives by groups such as NGOs and local authorities highlight a proactive stance against PoP idols while promoting sustainable alternatives. Though, rising material costs remain a ample challenge that could hinder growth potential for these small-scale craftspeople.

Preservation of this artisanal heritage carries dual implications: maintaining cultural identity through generational craftsmanship while contributing positively toward reducing pollution associated with non-biodegradable materials during festivals. The involvement of educated younger generations like Mr. Puttaswamy’s son reveals optimism about continuity despite economic pressures-a resilient testament to blending tradition with modern awareness.

Efforts by bodies like Mysuru City Corporation align well with India’s broader green ambitions but need robust support structures-subsidies or grants-to offset financial strain on craftsmen battling cost inflation year after year.

Read more: The Hindu Article