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How the Artisans of Kumartuli bring Clay Idols to Life

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Nestled between the narrow bylanes of North Kolkata is a place where tradition is renewed with the making of clay idols, that grace  pandals on the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja. We are talking about Kumartuli, a bustling hub for local artisans where each craft is steeped in an age-old tradition that speaks volumes about the Bengali culture. In this blog, we will shine the spotlight on the artisans of Kumartuli and the idol-making process during Durga Puja. A Brief History of Kumartuli Kumartali unlike today was a caste-based quarter exclusively meant for potters or kumbhars. In the 1700s British India, several caste-based quarters were alloted by the British East India company to people from different occupations and Kumartuli was one of these. The availability of soft, fertile clay is the reason for the making of earthenware by the community in the region. Today, it's a heritage site and a popular spot for someone who wishes to immerse in the traditional history...
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Mahalaya 2024: All You Need to Know

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  Goddess Durga: the Divine Feminine Energy   Divinity in Hindu culture has many forms and Goddess Durga is one such cosmic representation of the feminine energy. Her power and courage are a reminder to people across cultures and boundaries that evil can be vanquished and love, peace and prosperity within the entire universe can be restored. Mahalaya is a depiction of the victory of good over evil and that feminine power often protects and redeems the innocent when all else fails. This article will provide information on Mahalaya, signifying its traditional or cultural importance, and mention how Bengalis enjoy themselves during this auspicious moment.   What is Mahalaya?   Mahalaya is an auspicious occasion for Bengalis living mainly in Indian states like West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Odisha, Manipur and countries such as Bangladesh. The day is special as it is believed that Goddess Durga descends from Mount Kailasa (abode of Lord Shiva) to earth fo...
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World Rabies Day 2024: Facts and Significance

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      World Rabies Day is observed on 28 th September every year to spread awareness about rabies, a deadly disease common in Africa and Asia. By educating the public about the disease, the occurrences of rabies cases can be prevented and combated globally. Rabies is a zoonotic disease that is transferred to humans from infected animals with rabies virus (Lyssavirus) derived from the saliva of both domestic and wild animals. The virus mainly affects the central nervous system and is fatal in most cases. In developing countries like India, the virus is spread mainly through infected stray dogs via bites. 99% of human rabies cases are caused by infected dog bites. It can lead the person to develop several symptoms, including hydrophobia (extreme fear of water). In rare cases, an open wound or mouth and eyes being exposed to the saliva of an infected animal can lead to rabies. Theme for World Rabies Day 2024 and its Meaning or Significance The theme for World Rabies...
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