Sculptors in Kumartuli bemoan shortage of clay, higher costs, intrusive content creators
Artisans in Kolkata’s Kumartuli district report a shortage of clay and rising material prices, pushing back the completion of their idols by about two months and jeopardizing earnings during the upcoming festival season. They also complain that social‑media influencers are demanding exclusive photographs of the works without permission, adding pressure on the craftsmen and in the industry.