Journalism of Courage
In the second wave of the pandemic, idol makers and artists in Kolkata are once again worried about Durga Puja. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
They had suffered great losses because of the coronavirus last year, hoping they would make up for that this year. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
But as things stand today, the situation continues to look bleak, with cases on the rise and Durga Puja preparations practically in a state of limbo, shrouded by uncertainty. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
In the pre-pandemic years, about 50 per cent of their work would usually be done by this time. But this year, everything has been halted in the second wave. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
The artists say they have not yet received any advance money for making idols for the pujo. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
And they are worried about the uncertainty of this year's Durga Puja. festivity. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
Last year, too, not many customers turned up to buy idols. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
This year, therefore, they are working on making smaller idols. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
Currently, the artists are waiting for the lockdown to end. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
Like last year, this year also poses to be financially fatal for these hardworking artists. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
Barasat Potter's Colony stares at a grim situation in the months leading up to Durga Puja. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
Unfinished idols lined up at the Barasat Potter's Colony. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
Workers and artists are have been the worst hit by the onslaught of the second wave. (Express photo Shashi Ghosh)
Artists from the Potter's Colony in Kolkata continue to hope in the face of adversity. (Express photo by Shashi Ghosh)
