Agartala’s pottery art faces tough times ahead of Vishwakarma Puja
Sep 16, 2026
The narrow lanes of Battala in Agartala are witnessing a flurry of activity ahead of Vishwakarma Puja, with local potters working late hours to complete idols of Lord Vishwakarma. Yet, behind the busy workshops lies a growing concern, the festival season is no longer bringing the sales it once did.
With Vishwakarma Puja to be celebrated on September 18, artisans are preparing idols in a variety of sizes and designs to cater to customers across the city. Clay, colours and other materials are being carefully shaped and finished as potters race against time to meet last-minute orders.
However, many artisans say the festive rush has failed to translate into strong business.
“Business is not what it used to be. But we cannot give up this work because our families depend on it. Whatever the difficulties, we have to continue,” one potter said.
According to the artisans, rising input costs have become one of their biggest challenges. A significant portion of the materials and equipment needed for idol-making has to be sourced from outside Tripura, increasing both production and transportation expenses.
At the same time, changing consumer demand and lower sales have made it increasingly difficult for traditional potters to maintain their livelihoods.
The artisans are now banking on the final few days before the puja, when buyers typically arrive to purchase idols. They hope the last-minute rush will provide some relief and help recover at least part of their production costs.
But beyond this year's festival, potters remain worried about the sustainability of their traditional occupation. They say rising raw material prices, transportation expenses and declining demand are putting increasing pressure on an already vulnerable livelihood.
The potters have appealed to the government and concerned departments for greater support, particularly in reducing the burden of raw material and transportation costs. They believe targeted assistance could help preserve the traditional craft while ensuring a more stable livelihood for artisans.
For now, the workshops of Battala remain busy, with potters putting the finishing touches on their idols and waiting for customers. Whether the final Vishwakarma Puja rush can bring back some of the lost business remains to be seen.
