Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
Varanasi, October 16 (IANS) The slogans of “Swadeshi Apnao” and “Make in India” have brought smiles on the faces of the potters of Varanasi this Diwali. Amidst the declining demand for Chinese decorative items, the increasing sale of traditional clay lamps has given a major boost to their business.
As Diwali approaches, preparations are in full swing across the country. In the holy city of Varanasi, every street is illuminated with the glow of traditional earthen lamps. In Suddhipur village alone, around 2,500 potters are working tirelessly day and night to meet the surge in demand. These artisans, who once faced financial crisis, are now filled with new hope and happiness.
Speaking to IANS, potter Sunil Kumar said, “I have been doing this work for 30-35 years. The demand is so high that there is nothing left. People are no longer buying Chinese products. Now, they are choosing clay lamps.”
Dinesh Prajapati, another potter, said, “I have been working here for 50 years. There has been a big change in the purchasing patterns. The demand is increasing. We spend five to six hours a day making these items. Now we are making many different types of diyas.”
This year, the demand for traditional diyas has increased so much that potters in many areas are struggling to fulfill orders. According to local artisans, their business has increased by about 40 percent compared to last year.
This Diwali has brought a new wave of hope for the potters who have been struggling for years. Now there is a dire need to further promote campaigns like “Adopt Local Products” to help this age-old art regain its lost glory.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a Hindu festival of lights and is also celebrated by the Jain and Sikh communities. It symbolizes the spiritual victory of religion over unrighteousness, light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. This year, in 2025, according to the Hindu lunar calendar, Diwali falls on Monday, October 20, which is the 15th day of Kartik, the darkest night of the year.
–IANS
jk/and