Archive · 19 Sep 2025
Kumartuli: Balancing Tradition, Exports, and Spectacle
Kumartuli is a historic neighborhood where artisans make idols for the Durga Puja festival.
They face commercial challenges but have found some success exporting idols made from lighter materials like fiber to other countries.
They have to consider the needs of the people and themes of the festival.
While some idols are made for export or based on popular themes, many smaller clay idols are also made for local families and pujas.
The area is a mix of traditional craft, modern demands, and tourist attractions.
Kumartuli artisans face commercial challenges but have found success with exports.
Lighter fibre idols are exported to countries like the UK and USA.
Export orders provide income during slower months.
Puja themes often incorporate elements from cinema, literature, and politics.
Traditional clay idol making continues, especially for local use.
- Who
- Artisans, tourists, families, local communities
- What
- Durga Puja idol making and related activities.
- When
- Annually, during Durga Puja and throughout the year.
- Where
- Kumartuli, Kolkata
- Why
- To create idols for Durga Puja celebrations, export, and sustain local craft.
- Location
- Kumartuli, Kolkata
- Primary Activity
- Idol making for Durga Puja
- Key Products
- Clay and Fibre Idols
- Export Markets
- UK, Canada, USA, and others
- Themes in Pujas
- Cinema, Literature, Political Allegory
- Artisan Concern
- Commercial sustenance
Sources
Documentary on Durga to be shown at Times Square, London
Depicting goddess Durga in different mediums
Massive AI-designed 500-feet-long alpana near New Town Sarbojanin leaves commuters awe-struck
Durga Puja 2025: 12 Must-See Puja Pandals In Delhi-NCR
Top pujas in the East: From recycled wonders to social revolutions
