Kumortuli, a traditional potters colony in Kolkata

Dipa Chakraborty

In the heart of the older part of Kolkata (also known as North Kolkata) lies Kumortuli, a traditional potters colony that dates back to the 1700s. This area by the river Hooghly derives its name from the Bangla words 'kumor' (potter) and 'tuli' (locality). This is where the Durga idols for Bengal's biggest festival, Durga Puja, get made, Kumortuli is a traditional potters' quarter in northern Kolkata, West Bengal, India. The city is renowned for its sculpting prowess. It not only manufactures clay idols for various festivals but also regularly exports them,The first step in making a Durga idol Making the foundation or skeleton structure, which is the 'kathamo'. This bamboo and wooden structure acts as a base to support the idol. The straw is methodically bound together over it and the shape of the idol is formed. After that, the idol takes shape with river clay which is applied on the foundation structure. To remove impurities, the potters first stomp on the mud with their feet. The idol is then put out in the sun to dry for a few days to dry, before paint is applied. Traditionally the kumors (potters) have used earth-friendly material to make the idols. They would combine a special clay known as khori mati with colours. And use glue made from tamarind seeds. The powder of tamarind seeds would be used to help retain the colour of the clay idols.