The practice of art and craftsmanship serves as a means of cultural expression and plays a crucial role in community identity formation. In West Bengal, India, the artisan community of Ghurni in Krishnanagar has a long-standing tradition of creating handmade clay idols, a craft deeply embedded in the region's cultural heritage since the 19th century. Despite its global recognition for quality and uniqueness, this community faces numerous challenges, including limited market access, insufficient financial support, and competition from mass-produced goods. This paper aims to investigate the current economic status of the Ghurni artisan community and propose solutions to revitalize its declining industry. Through a descriptive research approach, this study utilizes structured questionnaires, interviews, random sampling, and data collection from various media sources. The research findings reveal that artisans within this community often lack formal education and awareness of their rights and are susceptible to exploitation by traders. However, the rapid advancement of technology and e-commerce has further marginalized these artisans, contributing to the gradual decline of their craft over the past three decades. The research advocates for immediate government intervention to support the development of the Ghurni artisan community. By addressing issues such as market access, financial support, and technological literacy, policymakers can help sustain the livelihoods of these artisans and preserve this invaluable aspect of Indian culture. The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for collaborative efforts to safeguard and promote traditional crafts, ensuring their continued existence for future generations.

Authors:
Sangita Das, Alliance University, Bangalore, India

About the Presenter(s)
Ms. Sangita Das is currently working as an Assistant Professor at Alliance University in Bangalore, India.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

Bookmark