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BANGALORE/LUCKNOW, INDIA, November 6, 2004: With the Hindu festival of lights, “Deepavali,” round the corner, pottery makers of Bangalore, famous for their craftsmanship, are working round the clock to meet the festive rush. While “diyas,” or earthen lamps, are made all over the country, the ones made here are considered to be the best in southern India. Potters here have been in the business for generations and lamps made by them are believed to be especially auspicious as it is said their forefathers were blessed by Vishwakarma, the Hindu God of tools and workmanship, himself. Each passing generation has added its own changes and innovations to the art and unlike many orthodox artisans, not shied away from adapting technology. The potters here in fact say the use of the electric potter’s wheel, which adds tremendously to speed and precision, has helped them create some of the most unique and beautiful creations, giving them that extra edge against the competition. Needless to say their designer creations are the biggest hit, with the fancy copper glaze and terra-cotta look, being lapped up instantly despite the steep cost. Despite the competition from electric and electronic lights and wax candles, Diyas are still in demand and will light up thousands of homes. “They have special hand work, like this Ganesha is made up of hand work,” Rajalakshmi, a buyer said.



In Lucknow, it is the sweets which are getting all the attention. Cashing in on the huge power of children in India’s consumer markets, a sweetmaker is doling out sweets shaped like crackers and fruits. Designed as little bombs, rockets, sparklers, mangoes and apples, the sweets have sent business soaring for the company, which is now even getting orders from other states. There is a lot of demand, we are even sending it to other states. We are supplying to Delhi, Uttaranchal and Jaipur. It feels great when our innovation is widely accepted and appreciated,” R.K Aggarwal, a sweetmaker said.

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