Kathmandu, November 1
With Tihar approaching, members of the Kumale pottery community in Bhaktapur are working at full pace to meet the growing demand for traditional clay oil lamps.
As soon as Dashain ended, preparations for Nepal’s next major festival began. In the Darbar Square area of Bhaktapur, local potters are busy making clay lamps, known as pala, for the Tihar celebrations.
Clay lamps made in Bhaktapur are well known among residents of the Kathmandu Valley and beyond.
Because of their traditional craftsmanship and distinctive identity, people travel to Bhaktapur from various districts, including Kavre, Sindhupalchok, as well as cities such as Pokhara and Dharan, to buy the lamps.
This year, each clay lamp is selling for up to Rs 2. However, potters expect prices to rise as demand increases during Tihar.
Lighting clay lamps is a longstanding tradition during Tihar. Clay pots are also used during Chhath, when curd offered to the Sun God is traditionally prepared in earthen vessels.
Clay pots are also used to install ceremonial urns during Laxmi Puja and Chhath worship. Other ritual offerings are traditionally placed in newly made earthen vessels.
These customs contribute to the increased demand for clay lamps and other earthenware during Tihar and Chhath.
