The Art of Traditional Indian Pottery

According to Indian mythology, Viswakarma, the God of arts and crafts, created the first earthen vessel in a rush after the ocean churned and a pot to store the nectar was urgently needed. Since then, clay crafts have become one of India's most popular handicrafts and earthenware has become an indispensable component of daily life. Clay pots are used to store water and grain, as well as to churn butter and set milk to form curds. A pot filled with water is often utilised in traditional ceremonies as a symbol of a good omen. If no picture of a deity is available, a water pot can be used for worship. Lamps, drums, flower vases, and musical instruments are among the earthen things utilised in rituals. For the first 12 days after birth, tiny earthen lanterns are placed near newborns. Many goods, like lamps for Diwali or toys for Dusserah, are made specifically for festive occasions.

Murti, or divinity figurines, are constructed of clay as well. Each region, and sometimes even each hamlet, has its enormous number of deities to be worshipped at different times and on different occasions. Because clay is readily available and affordable, it has become the most used material for murtis. Furthermore, because these divinities are said to lose their divine powers once venerated, they are either left in a calm place to crumble back into mother earth or drowned in a water pond to be dissolved. Indeed, it is quite environmentally friendly. Clay animal figurines are utilised in numerous ceremonies and rituals, and they are offered either to complete a pledge, to ward off disease, or to obtain favour. The figurines are used as stand-ins for real animals, and they have been sacrificed instead of them.

Many temples in India have terracotta components or sculptures that distinguish them from others. West Bengal is known for its use of terracotta plaques, medallions, and wall panels in architecture. Epics and historical legends are represented in folk style graphics.

Indian pottery is distinguished by its organic, basic yet appealing shape and ornamentation. However, depending on the locale, there are a few distinct varieties. The blue pottery of Jaipur and Delhi is well-known. The blue in Delhi ceramics is intense, bordering on turquoise, and is occasionally flecked with green. The Jaipur pottery is one-of-a-kind since it is the only pottery made without clay. It is thought to be more hygienic for everyday users because it does not crack. It's covered with arabesque patterns with animal and bird themes strewn throughout.

Aside from conventional water jugs and pipes, this region produces a variety of other goods, including tea and dinner sets, ashtrays, vases, and paperweights.

In West Bengal, there are numerous types of pottery. It is colourful and lovely, and it is utilised not only in-home settings but also on significant occasions like weddings, birth rituals, and other such occasions.

Bikaner's painted pottery is stained with lac colours, and then a gold tone is added. Alwar is famed for its Kagazi pottery, paper-thin and practically transparent (paper). Khurja pottery has its distinct style in Uttar Pradesh. On a white background, sky-blue floral motifs are produced. Warm fall colours like orange, brown, and mild red can also be found in the pottery.

Kutch in Gujarat is known for its stunning earthenware, both in shape and ornamentation, with its natural white ceramics being particularly lovely. Karigiri pottery boasts unique shapes and colours, the most well-known of which are green, yellow, brown, and blue.

With its deep, rich red velvety surface, Goa pottery has its distinct charm and elegance. Aside from water and flower pots, a specialty, a wide range of figures and panels are produced. A magic pot, which is filled through an aperture at the bottom, is a popular item. However, when the pot is placed back on its base, the water remains in the pot and does not run out.

As a result, with such a wide range of shapes, colours, and forms, everyone will be able to discover something they like to take home as a souvenir from India.