Divine image

Initially, Nalinikanta had a modest workshop in one of the markets in Chittaranjan Park. Then it shifted to a more appropriate place8212;the Kali Mandir complex in the locality. Here, one can see the entire Nath family and their 12 assistants work on 26 idols. Though it is considered a single entity, one idol or thakur is at least 11 figures: the idols of Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesh, Kartik, their vehicles lion, owl, swan, mouse, peacock, respectively, and of course, the demon Mahishasur. 8220;This year, bad weather didn8217;t allow us to take more orders. At times, we make more than 35 idols and some of those are meant for clients based abroad,8221; says Gobind.

Nalinikanta8217;s entire family works in Delhi. All his four sons, except his second son, Gobind, work for various companies. However, he made sure that one of his sons turns a full-time kumor or potter. 8220;Father started making idols at a very tender age and since he found a potential clientele in Delhi, he came here in search of work. Gradually, all of us shifted base. I am a Dilliwalla. After completing my primary education in Kolkata, I joined my father,8221; smiles Gobind.

The family maintains that though it8217;s only Gobind who has taken up the family profession, come Durga puja and all of them get involved in the making of pratima or idols. And as Nalinikanta8217;s other son Shantanu says, the family ensures that the children get initiated in the art of idol-making at a young age and at least one of them carries forward the tradition.

Every year, around June, Durga puja committees start placing orders and the Naths begin their work on the Rathayatra day in July-August. Their work continues till February.

8220;Around June, we go to Krishnanagar in West Bengal scouting for people who can act as skillful assistants. Idols are required by people organising Vishwakarma puja, which is generally a month before the Durga puja. Then there8217;s Lakshmi puja, followed by Jagadhatri puja, Kali puja. Later in January-February, idols are in demand for Saraswati puja. While demand is less for Jagadhatri puja, for Lakshmi and Saraswati puja, the demand is for smaller idols, as these festivals are mostly celebrated at homes. For an idol-maker, there8217;s nothing like Durga puja. We wait for this festival the entire year,8221; says Gobind. That8217;s evident as one takes a look at the various idols standing in his workshop.

Today, on Shashthi day as Bengali households hum agomoni songs invoking the Mother Goddess, mere mortal hands would give final shape to divinity.