Mail News Service
Saraikela, October 17: When it comes to celebrating traditional Diwali, the first things that come to mind are clay lamps, idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesh, clay toys, utensils, and the iconic piggy bank all lovingly crafted by local potters. Even in today’s high-tech and electric era, these handmade items continue to hold deep cultural and spiritual significance.
For potter families, Diwali brings not just festive cheer but also their biggest annual source of livelihood. After recovering from the economic blows of the COVID-19 pandemic, potters were optimistic this year especially with government support in the form of subsidized electric potter’s wheels, which have reduced manual labor by nearly 70%.
However, their hopes have been dampened by unfavorable weather. Continuous rainfall and the lack of sunlight have made it difficult for clay products to dry in time. Despite these challenges, potter families continue to work tirelessly, hoping for good sales and a brighter festive season.
Due to these production delays and weather-related challenges, prices of clay products have risen by 20–30% in this year’s Diwali market.
Clay Diwali items see price hike amid weather woes
Prices of traditional clay items used during Diwali have gone up this year, reflecting the impact of bad weather and higher production costs faced by potters. The current market rates are as follows:
Small diyas: Rs 180 per 100 pieces; medium diyas: Rs 220 per 100 pieces; large diyas: Rs 60 per dozen; fancy diyas: Rs 15–20 per piece; fancy four-sided diyas: Rs 50 per piece.
Other popular clay and festive items include:
Milkmaids (earthen dolls): Rs 80–150 per piece;c Clay toys: Rs 80–150 per piece; incense burners: Rs 30–70 per piece; kalash (pots): Rs 20–30 per piece; cloth idols of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi: Rs 200–1,000 per piece; ordinary clay idols of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi: Rs 40–150 per piece.
Traders attribute the price rise to delayed drying due to persistent rainfall and increased transportation costs, though demand for traditional items remains strong.
Dhanteras to bring prosperity with rare celestial yogas
This year’s Dhanteras will be marked by two rare and auspicious astrological combinations, Brahma Yoga and Budhaditya Yoga, believed to enhance wealth, prosperity and good fortune.
According to astrologer Pandit Brijmohan Sharma, these yogas will be particularly beneficial for individuals with Libra, Cancer and Capricorn zodiac signs. Dhanteras, celebrated as the festival of wealth and good health, falls on a Saturday this year, which also brings the special blessings of Shani Dev (Lord Saturn).
The Budhaditya Yoga, formed by the conjunction of Mercury and the Sun in Libra, is said to bring positive developments in career, finances, and social status.
Auspicious timings (Muhurats) for Dhanteras include:
Scorpio Ascendant: 8:32 AM – 10:49 AM; Aquarius Ascendant: 2:42 PM – 4:13 PM; Taurus Ascendant: 6:50 PM – 8:48 PM; Abhijit Muhurat: 11:36 AM – 12:24 PM.
Devotees will worship Lord Dhanvantari, seeking blessings for good health, longevity, and prosperity.
