The Art of Making Durga Pratima: From Clay to Divinity
Durga Puja, one of the grandest festivals in India, is especially significant in West Bengal, the northeastern states, and places around the world where the Bengali diaspora resides. It is not just a festival of worship and celebration but also a testament to the rich artistic traditions that bring the idols of Mother Goddess Durga to life. The process of Pratima-making is a meticulous craft passed down through generations, combining artistic skills, devotion, and cultural heritage. In Bengali tradition, these idols are referred to as Pratima. These Artisans not only create idols for Durga Puja but for many other festivals as well showcasing their exceptional skills throughout the year. In this blog, we will explore the fascinating journey of how these idols are created, from raw clay to magnificent divine figures.
Sri Sri Durga Puja at Belur Math. 2024. Photograph. Belur Math. Source: https://media.belurmath.org/sri-sri-durga-puja-2024-programme-details-12619/. Date of Accession:(23rd February 2025).
Artisan Kneading clay. 2024. Photograph. Dharamkot Studio. Source: https://www.dharamkotstudio.com/from-clay-to-art-everything-you-need-to-know-about-clay/. Date of Accession:(23rd February 2025).
The process begins months before the festival in the famed idol-making hubs like Kumartuli in Kolkata. There are several other workshops across the city where renowned artisans create these idols. The primary material used is clay, traditionally sourced from the banks of the Ganges. This clay is considered sacred, and in some traditions, it is mixed with soil from outside a prostitute’s house, symbolizing inclusivity in worship. The clay is carefully kneaded and mixed with rice husks to strengthen it and achieve the right texture for sculpting.
Building the Structure (Kathamo)
The Framework is ready for the first touch of the clay. 2016. Photograph. Kumartuli, Kolkata. Source: https://mediaindia.eu/eyetalk/kumartuli-the-god-making-factory-in-kolkata/. Date of Accession:(23rd February 2025).
The idol-making process starts with creating the Kathamo, or basic framework, using bamboo, wood, and straw. This framework provides support to the idol and ensures stability. Skilled artisans bind straw tightly around the bamboo frame, shaping the basic structure of the Pratima. The frame includes not just the idol of Mother Goddess Durga but also of Mother Goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati and Male Gods Ganesha, and Kartik.
Layering the Clay (Mati Work)
Pratima of Maa Durga kept for Drying. 2015. Photograph. Kumartuli, Kolkata. Source: https://www.travellingcamera.com/2015/09/durga-puja-idol-artists-of-kumartuli-kolkata.html. Date of Accession:(23rd February 2025).
Once the frame is ready, the first layer of clay, known as Ek mati, is applied to smoothen the straw surface. A second, finer layer, known as Doi mati, is then added to refine the details of the idol’s face, hands, and intricate ornaments. Artisans use their hands and simple tools to carve out expressions, ensuring that the goddess’s face exudes strength and compassion. Usually, the face and fingers are mold-casted for precision.
After the clay layers are applied, the idols are left to dry in the sun. This stage is crucial, as improper drying can lead to cracks. To refine the dried clay surface, artisans use fine sandpaper and tools, enhancing the expressions and intricate details of the ornaments, weapons, and garments. However, some idols inevitably develop cracks, which are carefully covered with soft mul-mul cloth coated in a thin layer of clay to restore their smooth finish.
Painting and Decoration
An artisan paints the eyes of an idol of Ma Durga in Kumartuli in Kolkata. 2007. Photograph. Salkhia Kolkata. Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/abhik/1613071489. Date of Accession:(23rd February 2025).
Once the idols are dried and polished, the painting process begins. A chalchitra (a decorative backdrop) is painted at the top of the Kathamo to depict mythological stories. Traditionally, natural dyes and colors were used, but today, synthetic paints have become more common. The first coat is a white base layer, followed by vibrant colors that bring the goddess to life. The eyes of the idol, known as Chokkhudaan, are the most significant feature and are painted last in a sacred ritual, symbolizing the moment the Mother Goddess comes to life.
At the artisans' colony called Kumartuli in Kolkata. 2022. Photograph. Kolkata. Source: https://www.outlookindia.com/travel/kumartuli-where-mortal-hands-shape-divine-features-news-217744. Date of Accession:(23rd February 2025).
Durga idols are adorned with exquisite decorations, including Sholar and Daker Saaj ornaments, gold foil embellishments, and traditional sarees. Some idols feature elaborate jewelry, crowns, and weapons like the trident, sword, and bow, signifying her divine power. In some cases, real fabric is draped over the idols, while in others, the saree itself is intricately sculpted from clay, adding to the grandeur.
Final Touches and Installation
Migrant workers pull the heavy clay idol from Kumortuli to the pandal. 2024. Photograph. Kolkata. Source: https://www.themigrationstory.com/post/work-and-worship. Date of Accession:(23rd February 2025).
After all artistic elements are completed, the idols are transported to the pandals (temporary shrines) where they are installed for worship. Artisans take great care during transportation to prevent any damage. The pandals are beautifully decorated to complement the idols, creating an immersive experience for devotees.
Conclusion
The making of Durga idols is not just an artistic endeavor but a deeply spiritual and cultural process. The craftsmanship, dedication, and rituals involved reflect the devotion of the artisans and the community. As the festival evolves with each generation, we see an increasing number of theme-based idols that fuse both traditional and modern art forms. Each idol tells a story of heritage, faith, and artistic brilliance, making Durga Puja a festival that transcends mere worship and transforms into an artistic and cultural spectacle.
Bibliography:
- Banerjee, S. 2012. The Cultural Heritage of Bengal’s Durga Puja. Kolkata: Rupa & Co.
- Bhattacharya, S. 2015. Kumartuli: The Artisans of Durga. New Delhi: Oxford University Press.
- Chakrabarti, P. 2017. The Durga Puja: Myth, Art, and Rituals. Kolkata: Ananda Publishers.
- Sen, D. 2019. Sacred Clay: The Making of Hindu Idols in Bengal. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
About the Author:
Author: Jyotirmoy Dutta
Jyotirmoy Dutta is a 19-year-old student at Thadomal Shahani Engineering College under Mumbai University, pursuing a degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. Passionate about history, architecture, and archaeology, he is also passionate about researching the intricate details of ancient and medieval Indian temples. His deep fascination with sculptural art extends beyond research, as he actively engages in creating sculptures, blending tradition with artistic expression.
