I love exploring cultures and traditions and am always intrigued to know the backstory. Considering this, my Bengali friend Shankar insisted me to pay a visit to Kumartuli in Delhi. There is Kali Mandir in CR Park (aka Chittaranjan Park) in South Delhi which is Delhi’s Kumartuli, where the artisans create idols for Durga Puja. Since I was a kid, I loved visiting the different pandals for Durga Puja and admired the beautiful Maa Durga idols and always wondered how and where they were made! So when my friend explained about this, I instantly said yes. I was so intriguied that we decided to a photoshoot here too! See!
Before showing you more Photos, let me share a brief information on Kumartuli.
Kumortuli commonly known as Kumartuli is a traditional artisans’ or potters’ place originally located in northern Kolkata in West Bengal. There are a lot artisans residing in various part of our country. Here, during the time of Navratri and before Durga Puja, potters make idols of Maa Durga and other Gods for the Durga Pujo and Pandals. These potters live here and work hard on their craft. Though most of the places have tickets to visit the Kumortuli, but in Delhi we visited early morning around 6:30 AM and as it was all empty, we could explore properly.
The word Kumartuli is made from 2 words i.e. from ‘Kumar’ which means ‘Potters’ and ‘Tuli’ which means ‘Locality’. I was surprised to know that the settlement of Kumortuli is over 300 years old. It was formed by a group local artisans who came to Kolkata for a better livelihood. We spoke to one of the local potter who has been living in Delhi Kumortuli for over 35 years, told that there are over 50 families living her and spending their days and nights in sculpting and creating idols for the festival.
As I walked through the lanes of Kumortuli, I was so fascinated to see the amazing work done by these artists. Most of the idols that were complete were covered with a sheet to prevent from dust and dirt as there was no hall or closed place for it. They have set it up tents, kept on the barns and jholas.
It felt really good to see so much talent in our people and so much dedication for our cultures. It surely gave me a unique insight of our culture and what touched my heart was the hard work of these incredible artists.
My Kumartuli Photography:
As I was visiting here for the first time, how could I not click photos for you all? Here is a glimpse of Kumortuli Delhi!
Ain’t these beautiful?
My Kumartuli Photoshoot is done by my friend and amazing photography Shankar B.
To visit Kumartuli Delhi, simply reach the ‘bada wala Kali Mandir’ in CR Park in South Delhi. You can take a cab, or if you live nearby, just get on the auto-rickshaw or cycle rickshaw to reach here.
Also read: Inside Ancient Temple Of Patal Bhuvaneshwar -India’s Most Mysterious Cave Temple
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