Concerns over declining pottery industry
The pottery industry that existed for over thousands of years is now on the verge of collapsing. Those who engaged in this trade from Avissawella and several other areas expressed their concern over the declining industry. They claim the intrusion of aluminum and plastic ware to traditional markets destroyed their livelihood.
W. Karunarathna (64), a traditional pottery workman from Ranala in Nawagamuwa, said; “This industry has been descending from generations. But today, many have left the trade. Even foreign industrialists have conducted research on the pottery industry. One such person introduced a new stove used in Pakistan which needs lesser firewood and can be used for heating two pots at a time. These were distributed among several Divisional Secretariats free-of-charge. I too was able to build a similar stove but it was not successful. Traders say the demand for pottery ware in any form is very poor.”
Meanwhile, retired indigenous doctor Sumedha Gamini Wetthasinghe stressed the significance of earthenware in the practice of indigenous medicine. He said earthenware was used in preparation of Ayurvedic medicine from very ancient times, and that it added an intrinsic value to medicine. He said these were of great value and could not be disregarded.
Further, Dr. Wetthasinghe said every domestic earthen utensil we use helps preserve our health; the best example is drinking water in earthen decanter. He said the authorities should focus on preserving this traditional industry.
Meanwhile, Puwakpitiya Sri Sumanagiri Aranya Senadhipathi Ven. Millawe Mahinda Thera said pottery products have been very useful in religious activities in temples and Devalas.
All customers request aluminum or plastic vessels and there was considerable demand for pottery only during the New Year season
The Ven. Thera said pottery was as old as the human history. Earthen decanters were used as drinking water containers and water from these vessels was very refreshing and hygienic, the Ven. Thera said.
The Ven. Thera pointed out that during the Sinhala and Hindu New Year, earthenware were used in many houses for auspicious activities. Pottery had become a part of our culture and we must preserve this industry, the Ven. Thera concluded.
Meanwhile, M.R. Gunasena, a trader from Puwakpitiya, spoke about the commercial aspect of the pottery industry.
He said there were only two places in the town where pottery vessels were sold today - his own stall and another small place.
Every domestic earthen utensil we use helps preserve our health; the best example is drinking water in earthen decanter
Stating that the demand for earthen ware was very low, Mr. Gunasena said he started to sell other domestic needs to run the business.
All customers request aluminum or plastic vessels and there was considerable demand for pottery only during the New Year season, he said.
Finally, Mr. Gunasena pointed out that with the present trend, pottery would soon become a historic item.