Artisans busy crafting Saraswoti idols as Saraswati Puja approaches

by Sanjay Kumar Mishra,Gaur,  Jan. 4: As the festival of Saraswati Puja approaches, artisans in Rautahat are working tirelessly to craft idols of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge. 

Local craftsmen, known as Kaligadhas, are busy creating idols for schools, private institutions, colleges, and coaching centres, as well as for households planning to perform the rituals at home.

The demand for Saraswati idols during this period provides a significant source of income for these artisans. 

Prices for the idols range from Rs.  3,000 to Rs. 20,000, depending on size and design, according to local artisans. 

Santosh Yadav, an experienced sculptor, explained that they earn well by creating the idols during the one-month peak period leading up to Saraswati Puja.

Ram Eakwal Sah, another artisan, said he has been busy for the past month preparing idols for the festival, working from early morning until late at night. 

Similarly, Jitendra Sah noted that the idols must be completed two to three days before the puja and handed over to the respective institutions, keeping him occupied throughout the period.Local Anand Khanal added that it is customary for both government and private schools, as well as coaching centres across the district, to have idols of Goddess Saraswati installed for worship. 

In some cases, groups of students also collectively install and worship an idol.