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Varanasi Potters Shine: How 'Make in India' Revived Clay Diya Tradition

Varanasi's potters are experiencing a remarkable revival this Diwali, driven by the 'Make in India' and 'Adopt Swadeshi' campaigns. Local artisans in Suddhipur village are witnessing unprecedented demand for traditional clay lamps, with sales increasing by nearly 40%. Customers are increasingly choosing handmade clay diyas over Chinese imported decorative items, bringing hope to generations of craftspeople. This shift represents not just an economic boost but a cultural renaissance of traditional craftsmanship.

Key Points: Varanasi Potters Boost Sales with Swadeshi Diwali Diyas

  • Traditional clay diya makers see 40% business increase
  • Suddhipur village hosts 2,500 dedicated potters
  • Local artisans create diverse diya designs
  • Swadeshi movement drives consumer preference for handmade products
2 min read

Varanasi: 'Adopt Swadeshi', 'Make in India' bring smiles to faces of potters this Diwali

Varanasi's potters experience 40% sales surge as traditional clay diyas replace Chinese decorative items this Diwali season

"The demand is so high that nothing is left. People are no longer buying Chinese products. - Sunil Kumar, Potter"

Varanasi, Oct 16

The slogans “Adopt Swadeshi” and “Make in India” have brought smiles to the faces of potters in Varanasi this Diwali. Amid declining demand for Chinese decorative items, the rising sales of traditional clay lamps has given a significant boost to their businesses.

As Diwali approaches, preparations are in full swing across the country. In the holy city of Varanasi, the glow of traditional clay lamps lights up every street. In Suddhipur village alone, around 2,500 potters are working tirelessly, day and night, to meet the surge in demand. These artisans, who once faced economic hardship, are now filled with renewed hope and joy.

Speaking to IANS, potter Sunil Kumar said, "I've been doing this for 30-35 years. The demand is so high that nothing is left. People are no longer buying Chinese products. Now, they are choosing clay diyas."

Dinesh Prajapati, another potter, added, "I've been working here for 50 years. There's been a major shift in buying patterns. Demand keeps increasing. We spend five to six hours a day making these items. We're now creating many different types of diyas."

This year, the demand for traditional lamps has grown so much that potters in several areas are struggling to keep up with orders. According to local artisans, their business has increased by nearly 40 per cent compared to previous years.

For potters who have struggled for years, this Diwali brings a fresh wave of hope. There is now a pressing need to further promote campaigns like "Adopt Local Products" to help this age-old art regain its lost glory.

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the Hindu festival of lights and is also celebrated by Jain and Sikh communities. It symbolises the spiritual triumph of Dharma over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. This year, in 2025, Diwali falls on Monday, October 20, according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which marks the 15th day of Kartik, the darkest night of the year.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sunil U
As someone from Uttar Pradesh, I've seen how our potters struggled over the years. This Diwali, my family bought only clay lamps from local artisans. The feeling of lighting traditional diyas is unmatched! 🙏
R
Rohit P
While I support local products, we need to ensure this isn't just a temporary trend. The government should provide better infrastructure and marketing support to these artisans throughout the year, not just during festivals.
A
Anjali F
The beauty of handmade clay diyas brings back childhood memories. This year, we're teaching our children about the significance of traditional crafts. Jai Hind! 🪔🕯️
M
Michael C
Visiting Varanasi last year, I was amazed by the craftsmanship of local potters. Their dedication deserves global recognition. Great to see traditional arts thriving! 👏
K
Karthik V
40% increase in business is massive! This shows how consumer awareness can transform lives. Let's continue supporting our desi products beyond Diwali too. #VocalForLocal 💪

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