Carving space in a man’s world
WALKING cautiously along the narrow lanes of Kumartuli, the traditional sculpting hub and potters’ lane in north Kolkata, one can easily locate the few women idol-makers who have carved a niche for themselves in a world dominated by men.
Popular female idol-maker Chaina Pal, who had to tackle “sceptical customers” in the past, recently visited China to showcase her work (two of her idols are displayed in a Chinese museum).
Mala Pal, who has a similar story, is now a favourite for her miniature idols.
“I loved visiting my father’s studio as a child, but he never encouraged me as a female was rarely seen in Kumartuli. Later, when he fell ill I could actually fill the gap as my elder brothers were busy doing their jobs. At the age of 14, I took charge of the workshop after he passed away,” Chaina, who now runs another studio in Baghbazar with eight helpers, said.
“It was difficult as I did not know the entire process of idol-making, but my sheer love for the art helped me to learn it quickly.”
Chaina has earned the title “Dashabhuja” (a reference to Goddess Durga, who has 10 hands) for efficiently managing her workshop, cooking and taking care of her 95-year-old mother.
Sharing her experience of making her path-breaking work, the “Ardhanarishwar Durga idol”, Chaina said: “I made it on request of the transgender community in 2015. A few people didn’t like it, but I do not care. I believe everyone has the right to worship the goddess. I haven’t heard about anyone else making such a figurine.”
She upholds her family’s tradition by only making the traditional Durga idols on a single platform along with her family of Lord Ganesha, Kartikeya, Lakshmi and Saraswati.
Mala Pal broke stereotypes by not paying heed to “what people said” and joined in 1985. However, after her father’s death, the 15-year-old girl was encouraged by her brother, Gobinda Pal.
Shaping the clay and etching the shapes needs dexterous fingers, but creating the base of huge idols using wood and the basic structure with bamboo needs immense strength.
Mala’s father did not want his daughter to join in due to this very reason.
Chaina added: “I wouldn’t ask others to take up idol-making as it requires hard labour. If a person truly loves the art and is ready to sacrifice everything else, she can make a mark.” – IANS