Uttar Pradesh's potters struggle for survival amid festival demand, call for market space

As the festive season of Diwali approaches, potters across Uttar Pradesh are grappling with significant economic challenges despite a notable increase in demand for traditional earthenware and lamps. The state is home to approximately one lakh potter families, with around 70% actively engaged in producing various clay products. These artisans predominantly create kulhars (traditional clay cups), decorative lamps, and idols of deities for the festival, showcasing their cultural heritage.

The pottery business in Uttar Pradesh traditionally sees a surge during festivals and auspicious occasions, yet many potters find themselves idle during the rest of the year. In the month leading up to Diwali, families often work tirelessly to produce an array of items, including clay toys and decorative pieces. However, the lack of dedicated market spaces for selling these products results in many potters facing significant financial strain, especially during the off-peak months.

Government efforts to modernize pottery practices have included providing electric wheels to enhance productivity. While this initiative aims to improve efficiency, it does not address the pressing issue of market accessibility. Potters often need to pay property owners for stall spaces in busy markets, which eats into their profits. The high costs of setting up stalls mean that the financial returns for their hard work are often negligible.

With the rise of artificial lamps in the market, traditional clay lamps are increasingly being viewed as less competitive. As a result, clay lamps have been relegated to ceremonial uses, diminishing their significance during festive celebrations. This shift poses a risk to the cultural identity associated with these handmade products and threatens the livelihoods of potters who rely on these sales.

Community leaders and organizations, such as the Uttar Pradesh Clay Art Board, have recognized the urgent need for designated market spaces to support local potters. Mangru Prajapati, a board member, stated that they are actively advocating for the establishment of selling areas to enhance visibility and sales opportunities for potters. This initiative has been backed by the National Prajapati Association, emphasizing that the livelihoods of 60,000 to 70,000 families are at stake.

In response to these challenges, local leaders are appealing to the District Magistrate to facilitate arrangements that would allow potters to sell their products more effectively during the festival. Ensuring that potters have a reliable marketplace not only supports their economic stability but also helps preserve the rich cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh’s traditional pottery. As the festival approaches, the need for administrative support is more critical than ever to safeguard the future of these artisans.