The idea of ‘Ek Chala Thakur’ showcasing Goddess Durga and her children against one common backdrop came into existence during the rule of Raja Krishnachandra of Krishnanagar. Roughly located around 23 kilometers from the town of Bishnupur, lies a small settlement called ‘Panchmura’ also known as the ‘Terracotta hub of Bengal’. Around seventy families who are a part of this small community still carry on the age old tradition of hand-crafted pottery and are popularly referred to as ‘Kumbhakar’. This is a very simple yet dynamic form of art that derives its inspiration from religious rituals and ceremonies. Through their unique artistic expertise, the artisans of Panchmura have metamorphosed the idea of ‘Ek Chala’ idol and have given it a new look and meaning altogether.

Description

The idea of ‘Ek Chala Thakur’ showcasing Goddess Durga and her children against one common backdrop came into existence during the rule of Raja Krishnachandra of Krishnanagar. Roughly located around 23 kilometers from the town of Bishnupur, lies a small settlement called ‘Panchmura’ also known as the ‘Terracotta hub of Bengal’. Around seventy families who are a part of this small community still carry on the age old tradition of hand-crafted pottery and are popularly referred to as ‘Kumbhakar’. This is a very simple yet dynamic form of art that derives its inspiration from religious rituals and ceremonies. Through their unique artistic expertise, the artisans of Panchmura have metamorphosed the idea of ‘Ek Chala’ idol and have given it a new look and meaning altogether.