The traditional clay pottery handicraft is facing threat of extinction at Jibannagar in Chuadanga. People have been losing interest of clay pottery day by day in the age of modern technology.
Potters in the area are struggling to stay in their traditional occupation. Only 25 families are involved with this traditional art and occupation. The number of potters has been declining significantly as the use of aluminum and plastic has increased.
Aluminum and plastic pots, pans and pitchers have replaced those of the earthen types used.
Once there was a huge demand of clay handicrafts, potteries and other clay products of Jibannagar among people of all ages and professions in Chuadanga, Meherpur, Jhenaidah and other districts of the country.
The use of clay pottery has declined in recent years. Some 200 families of clay potters have already left the occupation for a better life. Uses of plastic, silver and rubber are increasing in a much higher proportion to the decline in the use of earthenware. Only more than 20 families are struggling to stay in the profession of their ancestors.
Ananda Pal, a clay potter of Dehati village of Jibannagar upazila, said, “Most of the people are fond of plastic and rubber products rather clay potteries. People are reluctant to use the traditional potteries. Once we were making the clay pots, pitchers, plates and other stuffs as there was huge demand of such items among the people. Now we are making toys, flower vase and other stuffs to survive.”
Dipali Pal, another potter from Monohorpur village of the upazila, said, “I and my other family members are involved in this profession. But, the fortune does not favour us as the demand of clay products is very low. Moreover, we don’t have enough capital to invest and keep the industry ahead. The clay pottery industry is in the path of extinction. We are passing a miserable life.”