Kumartuli, Kolkata (Calcutta)

Watch traditional potters sculpting clay gods at Kumartuli. The narrow alleys in the backstreets are packed with diligent artisans who create clay idols for various festivals. The modeler makes the skeleton of an idol from hay and bamboo before adding layers of mud from the sacred river Ganges. Finished statues are then painted and dressed in silk saris and adorned with jewelry. If you happen to be around during the Durga Puja festival, you can watch the sculpted gods being floated down the river, which symbolizes their return back to nature. Plan to visit Kumartuli during your Kolkata (Calcutta) vacation using our convenient Kolkata (Calcutta) journey planning site.