Diwali is boom time for them. Though the diyas, which these artisans make, spread light in the lives of one and all, recognition seems to elude them.
Not many in Jajpur know that the decorative earthen lamps (diyas) which are proudly displayed during Diwali in the homes of the rich and the poor alike, are made in the narrow lanes of Kumbharasahi outskirts of Jajpur.
Nearly 75 families have monopolised the art of making diyas from clay. “Diyas from fire clay are manufactured in a large quantity here,” claimed Giridhari Behera (45), a diya maker of Kumbharsahi.
With changing times, the demand for diyas has also changed. However, except businessmen from various parts of the district and its nearby areas, who are aware of the place, not many come directly to these potters.
“It is not that we do not sell the products directly but not many come here,” said Sudam Behera (56) another potter of Kumbharsahi who makes decorative diyas. “In fact, here the diyas are sold at half the price,” he added.
All family members of potters are engaged in one way or other in manufacturing the items. “We do not keep count of the number of pieces sold, “Sudam said, adding the sale is picking up with Diwali just a few days away. Once the festival is over, they concentrate on making pots, flower-pots and other items, he said.
Pravat Behera (30), another potter said, “While I want to educate my five-year-old son, I will also teach him the art in case he doesn’t get a job”.
While diyas, selling from Rs 4 to Rs 150, are available in Kumbharsahi . “These days many even use diyas as lamp shades,” said Kalandi Behera, another potter.
Earthen lamps in a variety of shapes and sizes from Kumbharsahi have flooded shops as people prepare to celebrate Diwali on November 13.
The tradition has been to light earthen lamps which is considered auspicious. Every year around Diwali, the market is full of earthen lamps. Today, these commonly available diyas are in high demand. Be it designer diyas or the traditional earthen lamps, they are available in wide ranges and at attractive prices.
People buy it for decorative purposes on Diwali as well as to use them during the evening Puja of Goddess lakshmi and lord Ganesha.
Though candles, over the years, have also become a popular choice on Diwali, the charm of traditional diyas has not been affected, said Binod Behera (74), a potter of Kumbharsahi. Potters are optimistic that the diyas hold their own distinct attraction and thus it is unlikely that they can ever be replaced by electrical lights. People may try out new things, but it is not likely that they will abandon clay lamps.