Surjit Singh Flora
Diwali is a vibrant and joyous celebration. The festival of lights reliably inspires a sense of nostalgia. In the days preceding Diwali, the dedicated potter community in the villages of Punjab would produce exquisite earthen lamps and a variety of crafts. It is concerning to observe the decline of these traditional arts in numerous regions. With the market increasingly saturated with imitation lamps and electric chains produced in China, along with various other lighting options, the allure of earthen lamps seems to be waning. Individuals committed to supporting their families through the art of clay are currently facing a notable economic downturn.
The tradition of crafting pottery during Diwali is diminishing, as it is increasingly overshadowed by the prevalence of electronic and mechanized products. Illuminating clay lamps during Diwali has been a valued tradition in our culture. Although certain individuals persist in maintaining this practice, they need our assistance to sustain it.
Clay lamps, often known as ‘Diya’, have been a significant part of Diwali celebrations for many years. They provide light and carry significant cultural and spiritual value. Lamps, generally powered by oil and cotton wicks, represent the conquest of light over darkness and the success of good over evil. Lighting a Diya creates a distinctive ambiance; the flickering flames foster a warm atmosphere enriched with treasured memories. My grandmother frequently noted that the illumination from a lamp infuses warmth and positive energy into the home.
Recently, electric lights have experienced a notable increase in popularity. These options provide increased convenience, superior safety, and enhanced energy efficiency in comparison to traditional lamps. Furthermore, they are more prominent in terms of decoration. Adorning balconies, windows, and doors with electric lights can produce a remarkable visual impact.
A considerable number of individuals are choosing LED lights to improve the exterior of their homes, likely because of their durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions. The use of clay lamps in the ritual of puja prayer continues to provide a vital element of tradition and authenticity to the practice.
Ultimately, regardless of whether one chooses clay lamps or LED lights, the essence of Diwali is found in the celebration of light, joy, and unity. Your Diwali celebration ought to embody the elements that genuinely evoke joy and warmth in your spirit and environment.
It is a fact that in today’s world, the potters responsible for crafting the significant lamps and idols for Diwali are lacking proper lighting in their homes and are distancing themselves from their traditional art and trade. The artisans convey that they invest significant effort in the creation of pottery and lamps; however, they perceive a lack of recognition for their hard work, which discourages the next generation from engaging in this craft. For the potters, Diwali represented more than merely a celebration; it functioned as an essential source of income. Recently, there has been a significant trend as individuals start to transition from Chinese lamps and re-embrace the appeal of traditional lamps. In contrast, these artisans contend that the Punjab government should, akin to the Himachal government, provide them with complimentary tools to aid in the revival of this diminishing heritage.
Diwali represents a collection of radiant lights. Deepavali is derived from the combination of the words ‘Deep’ and ‘Avali’. Deepavali refers to a series of lamps, as ‘Avali’ denotes a row. The presence of the potter’s wheel and utensils is essential for a complete celebration, whether it be Karva Chauth, Ashtami, Deepavali, or any other festival. In the villages, lamps played an important role during Diwali, with clay lamps being the customary selection for residences. Nonetheless, the impact of modernity appears to have affected this valued heritage.
Historically, planting was a prevalent practice; however, with the evolution of lifestyle and the impact of modernity, the advancements of today have eclipsed the artisans who once expertly shaped the earth.
The brilliance of Chinese chains in the bazaars is beginning to eclipse the glow of the clay lamp.
For centuries, Diwali has been celebrated with the lighting of clay lamps in our homes; however, the emergence of Chinese lamps in the market has significantly reduced the significance of our traditional clay lamps. The potters are encountering considerable challenges. The impact of modernity has extended to the residences of potters, who have historically brightened their environments with lamps during Diwali. The lamp manufacturers are currently facing challenges, resulting in an inability to provide light for their own residences. It is rather ironic that during Diwali, individuals participate in the worship of Lakshmi and Ganesha using idols and lamps, all with the intention of inviting Lakshmi into their However, these idols and lamps have been removed from the artisans who created them. Candles and colored light bulbs have replaced traditional lamps.
The potters who craft lamps demonstrate a significant level of dedication and effort in their work. The clay must first be transported from distant locations, then sifted, followed by kneading and shaping into the final product. After considerable effort, the dried materials are successfully placed in the fire, and the lamps are now prepared for use. Despite the considerable effort invested, the genuine worth of their contributions remains overlooked, resulting in a sense of undervaluation among the inexperienced. The lamp-making craftsman indicated that his children are not inclined to follow this career path because of its demanding nature. Consequently, they are not obtaining adequate compensation.
In our rapidly evolving world, there appears to be a disconnection from our rich cultural heritage.
It is crucial to implement measures for the preservation of traditional arts, and the public is encouraged to actively support these initiatives by acquiring their creations.
(The writer is a veteran journalist and freelance writer based in Brampton).
