Kumar Tuli Durga idols artisans craft masterpieces not only for Kolkata but also for India and overseas Puja organisers. Young visitors flock here to see the idols and click selfies. Despite challenges like rain, the artists work tirelessly to bring each idol to life ahead of Durga Puja 2025.
Kolkata : Kumar Tuli stands as the largest artisan hub where Kumar Tuli Durga idols are crafted not only for Kolkata but also for other parts of India, as well as for Puja organisers in London and America. Moreover, this historic area has created Durga idols for over 100 years. Every Puja season, young visitors flock to Kumar Tuli to click selfies with Ma Durga. However, heavy rains challenge these artists, so they cover the idols in plastic to protect them. As Kolkata and the country gear up for Durga Puja, these artisans actively bring life to their Kumar Tuli Durga idols, working day and night to meet deadlines and maintain perfection in every detail.
Additionally, artisans design the idols according to each Puja pandal’s theme. Kolkata earns fame for its elaborate pandal decorations, which often carry social, political, and economic messages. For instance, one prominent Durga Puja committee chose “OPERATION SINDOOR” as its theme, honouring the Indian armed forces. Therefore, these artists must carefully craft each Kumar Tuli Durga idol to match the theme of the respective Puja committee, ensuring every figure reflects devotion, artistry, and cultural symbolism.
The artisans sculpt Ma Durga from sticky Ganga clay, which is ideal for idol making. They collect clay, bind straws to form the basic structure, and start work as early as July, during Rath Yatra. In addition, Kumar Tuli artisans follow the unique tradition of collecting clay from the ‘forbidden’ red-light area. They believe that without this handful of clay, work cannot begin. This practice symbolizes that the Goddess belongs to everyone, regardless of caste, class, or social status.
Finally, Ma Durga arrives at her father’s home with her children, bringing joy and festivities to the mortal world. As a result, the dedication and skill of these artisans form the backbone of the grandeur surrounding this four-day festival, earning recognition from UNESCO. Moreover, their devotion and craftsmanship make Kumar Tuli Durga idols central to Kolkata’s iconic Durga Puja celebrations, inspiring generations of devotees and artists alike.
