The sound of festival preparations is growing louder in Sirajganj’s Bhadraghat Palpara, where artisans are working day and night to bring Goddess Durga idols to life.
Using straw, bamboo, wood, clay and thread, the craftsmen are carefully shaping the idols ahead of Durga Puja. Some are building frames, others applying layers of clay, while painters add the final touches to create expressive faces and intricate details.
The traditional pottery neighbourhood in Kamarkhand Upazila has turned into a busy workshop, with around 12 households producing hundreds of idols. Men, women and even children from artisan families are involved in the process — preparing materials, shaping structures, drying idols and applying colours.
Artisan Goutam Pal said his family workshop is making around 50 idols this year. “Each idol sells for between Tk15,000 and Tk50,000. Demand is higher than previous years, but production costs have increased sharply, leaving little profit,” he said.
He added that artisans in Bhadraghat Palpara are producing around 200 to 230 idols this season, with buyers arriving from across the region.
Another craftsman, Dilip Pal, said idols made in the area are sold for Tk20,000 to Tk60,000. “We employ five workers at our home. Male workers receive Tk1,200 a day, while female workers earn Tk600,” he said.
However, rising prices of raw materials have become a major concern. Artisans said bamboo, wood, straw, thread, clay, paint and transport costs have all increased compared with last year, while idol prices and wages have not risen at the same pace.
Female artisan Mina Pal said women play an important role in the craft. “From preparing clay and tying straw to drying and painting idols, we work alongside men. It is a family tradition, and although the work is difficult, seeing clay take the shape of the goddess brings us joy,” she said.
The idols from Bhadraghat are popular not only in Sirajganj but also in neighbouring districts including Pabna, Bogura, Natore and Tangail. Buyers regularly visit the area to place orders, praising the artisans’ finishing and artistic quality.
With changing times, idol designs have also evolved. Inspired by designs seen on social media, many organisers are now requesting more modern creations while maintaining traditional elements.
Despite the growing demand, artisans remain worried about receiving fair payment for their labour. They say every idol represents weeks of hard work, family effort and generations of artistic heritage.
Sirajganj is expected to host more than 500 Durga Puja mandaps this year. Preparations are already underway across the district as communities await the arrival of the goddess.
