Vadodara’s Clay Ganpati Market Showcases Artistry of 73 Village Artisans

As the auspicious occasion of Ganeshotsav approaches on the 19th, Vadodara is abuzz with preparations and celebrations. In a commendable initiative, the Institute of Pottery Art and Rural Technology of the State Government has organized an exhibition and sale of clay Ganesha idols. This event has garnered immense attention, with a total of 73 skilled artisans from various villages actively participating.

Happiness Upon Receiving the First International Order

The sheer joy of receiving her first international order has illuminated the face of 30-year-old Jadhav Anjali Dagdu. Anjali is an active participant in the ongoing fair, and the news of securing her inaugural international order from Oman and Saudi Arabia has brought an unmistakable radiance to her countenance.

As part of her yearly routine, Anjali crafts approximately 300 eco-friendly Ganapati idols and ensures their timely delivery to customers located in Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Gandhinagar, and Anand. This dedicated effort to produce such a substantial number of idols reflects her unwavering commitment to her craft and her loyal clientele.

Anjali’s journey into the world of pottery and idol-making began with her training at the prestigious Gujarat Institute of Pottery and Rural Technology. Armed with the knowledge and skills acquired during her training, she embarked on the creative journey of crafting Ganesha idols. Her participation in fairs organized by the institute played a pivotal role in providing her art with both a platform and substantial financial benefits.

This notable achievement of receiving international orders from Oman and Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in Anjali’s career. It not only underscores the global appeal of her eco-friendly Ganapati idols but also reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that she invests in each creation. Furthermore, this international recognition reaffirms the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat and the artistic prowess of its talented artisans.

Anjali Dagdu’s journey in the field of idol-making and entrepreneurship has been enriched by her educational background. Having successfully completed her Post Graduation in Management from MSU Baroda, she has leveraged her management education to enhance her idol-making business.

Anjali embarked on her creative venture in 2016, specializing in crafting eco-friendly Ganesha idols. Her decision to apply her management knowledge to her craft has proven to be a strategic move. By integrating management principles into her business, she has efficiently navigated the complexities of production, marketing, and customer relations.

Produces an Average of 300 Idols Each Year

Anjali Dagdu’s dedication to her craft is truly commendable, as she consistently produces an impressive annual average of 300 eco-friendly idols. Her journey into clay idol making began in 2016 when she undertook a one-month training program at the Gujarat Institute of Pottery Arts and Rural Technology. This educational opportunity provided her with the essential skills and in-depth knowledge required for the meticulous art of clay idol making.

The training Anjali received was instrumental in honing her craftsmanship and imparting crucial insights into the intricacies of creating clay idols. This foundation has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in her ability to produce high-quality eco-friendly Ganapati idols.

In addition to her training, Anjali benefits from the government’s support and infrastructure. The provision of free stalls at fairs and assistance in publicity are vital aspects that contribute to the success of her business. This platform not only promotes her art but also connects her with a diverse clientele, furthering her reach and market presence.

Shweta Sureshbhai, a 36-year-old housewife, has been an integral part of the handicraft business for the past 12 years. Her journey into the world of handicrafts was significantly enriched by her training at the Gujarat Institute of Pottery and Rural Technology. This training equipped her with the necessary skills to create exquisite idols, which she used to fulfill orders from clients in the past.

Over the years, Shweta has expanded her business horizon by successfully catering to bulk orders from international destinations such as the United States and London. Her ability to consistently deliver high-quality clay idols to clients abroad reflects her commitment to excellence and craftsmanship.

The two artists, along with 71 others, form a collective of 73 artisans who showcased their meticulously handcrafted clay idols at a five-day fair held at the Parsi Agiyari Maidan in Sayajiganj, Vadodara. Their participation in this event underscores their commitment to promoting eco-friendly Ganeshotsav celebrations through their stunning clay Ganesha artworks.

Crucial to their artistic journey is the training they received from the esteemed Gujarat Institute of Pottery Art and Rural Technology. This training not only honed their skills but also instilled in them a deep sense of responsibility toward the environment. Armed with this knowledge and expertise, they have dedicated themselves to crafting eco-friendly Ganesh idols.

The Gujarat Pottery Arts and Rural Technology Institute, supported by the Gujarat Government, is playing a pivotal role in empowering clay idol makers in Vadodara city and its district, facilitating their journey toward self-sufficiency. Their mission, encapsulated in the slogan ‘Swachh Desh, Prasanna Ganesha,’ is to promote eco-friendly Ganeshotsav celebrations. This initiative is embodied in the ongoing fair, which commenced on September 13 and is set to continue until September 19.

Remarkably, this fair boasts a substantial participation of women artists, comprising approximately 70 percent of the total artisans. Their active involvement underscores the empowerment of women in traditional arts and crafts, emphasizing their vital role in promoting eco-consciousness during the Ganeshotsav festival.

A staggering collection of approximately 12,500 clay figurines, encompassing various sizes and themes, is currently on display at the fair. This diverse range of clay idols serves as a vivid testament to the artistic versatility and creativity of the artisans.

The overarching message of the fair is clear: it advocates for eco-friendly practices during Ganeshotsav celebrations. By providing a platform for these talented artisans and their exquisite clay figurines, the fair encourages the adoption of sustainable and environmentally responsible approaches to the festival.