The Chief Minister’s call for Vocal for Local has brought smiles on the faces of potters
Bhopal. The potters’ wheels, which make clay lamps to please Goddess Lakshmi on Diwali, have gained momentum. After the call of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Adopt Swadeshi’ by Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the potters are expecting good sales this time.
These days, the entire family of potters from Bilhari, Umariapan and Kanti of Katni district and other places are involved in the work of making clay lamps, some are engaged in kneading the clay, while others are shaping the clay pots on the wheel. Women have been entrusted with the responsibility of lighting the bonfire (Awa) and keeping the cooked pots organized. They are also busy decorating the pots with different colors.
Shivkumar Kumhar, a resident of village Pahadi Niwar, says that due to the appeal of Local for Vocal by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan, the demand for clay diyas has increased this year compared to last year. Balu Kumhar says that he has to start making earthen diyas and other utensils and idols about one and a half to two months in advance. He says very wisely that earthen diyas also reduce air pollution, promote indigenous products and every member of the family gets work. The biggest benefit of the increased demand for earthen diyas is that the potter community is able to earn a livelihood as well as keep their cultural heritage alive.
