A Saraswati idol crafted by Magura-based sculptor Sarjit Adhikari is set to be worshipped at the country’s premier institution, University of Dhaka, marking a major milestone for the rural artist.
The idol, made by Sarjit of Bhatikadanga village in Magura, will be worshipped during Saraswati Puja on 23 January at the pavilion of the Department of Pharmacy on the premises of Jagannath Hall.
The selection has sparked pride and joy among local artists and culture enthusiasts, as the work of a district-level sculptor will stand alongside idols created by some of the country’s most renowned artisans.
Sarjit has been making idols for years across various mandaps in Magura. His distinctive artistic designs, precise use of colour and ability to bring lifelike emotion to facial expressions have helped him gain local recognition in a short time. Having his work worshipped at Dhaka University is being seen as a defining moment in his artistic journey.
“Just thinking that my idol will be worshipped at Dhaka University fills me with pride,” Sarjit said. “To see my work displayed alongside those of nationally recognised sculptors is a great honour for an artist from a district town. Since getting opportunities to work here, I have also received commissions for Durga Puja and other festivals from different parts of the country. This will inspire me to do even better work.”
He added that, in creating the Saraswati idol, he tried to blend traditional scriptural principles with modern aesthetics to reflect the goddess’s knowledge, beauty and compassion.
Jagannath Hall has long been regarded as a centre of harmony and cultural practice. Every year during Saraswati Puja, idols by leading artists from across the country are featured there. Many see the inclusion of Sarjit’s work in that tradition as recognition of local culture and grassroots creativity.
Cultural activists in Magura believe Sarjit’s achievement will serve as inspiration for other idol makers in the district, showing that dedication and creativity at the village or district level can earn national recognition.
As Jagannath Hall hosts Saraswati Puja across 73 mandaps in a single compound, turning the campus into a landmark of devotion to knowledge and learning, the touch of an artist from a remote Magura village will become part of that history—placed at the feet of the goddess of education and culture.
