
Have you ever had the desire to turn a lump of clay into a beautiful and useful object? Go no farther than Bhaktapur, Nepal, a historically rich city well-known for its age-old pottery industry. You may explore the world of clay and get a firsthand look at the enchantment of creating ceramics here.
Pottery in Bhaktapur has a long history it is thought to have begun in the second century AD. According to legend, the Prajapati community, often referred to as the Kumals is a caste that has long been connected to the pottery industry. Because of the generations-long transfer of their expertise, Bhaktapur pottery is still highly sought after today.
Bhaktapur pottery has cultural significance beyond only its visual appeal for many reasons. Some of them are mentioned below:
- Special Black Clay: Known as “Dyo Cha,” or “God’s clay,” this unique black clay is mostly used by potters and can only be found in a certain area close to Bhaktapur. This particular clay is thought to be incredibly flexible and ideal for making pottery.
- Bhaktapur pottery is both elegant and useful, serving a variety of functions beyond aesthetics. Bhaktapur potters create a vast array of beautiful and practical goods, ranging from ornate ornamental pieces to standard kitchenware including plates, cups, and water jugs.
- Symbol of Tradition: Bhaktapur’s pottery-making process has remained mostly unchanged, employing ancient tools and techniques. You can establish a connection with the city’s rich heritage of culture by seeing this process.
Throughout Bhaktapur, there are numerous pottery squares (known as “Kumal Tole” locally) where tourists can participate in pottery-making classes. This is what to look for:
- Selecting Your Clay: You will be able to feel the distinct texture of each lump of clay that you choose.
- Learning the Fundamentals: You will be guided through the basic methods of sculpting clay on a spinning wheel by an experienced potter.
- Making Your Masterpiece: You will get to shape the clay into the shape you want, whether it’s a straightforward plate or a more complex pattern, all under the potter’s careful supervision. Recall that it could take some practice to create a masterpiece with perfect balance!
- The Final Touches: Before your work is fired, you may have the chance to add decorative accents or personalize it.
- The Wait: Traditionally, the ceramics are burned in a wood-fired kiln after being sun-dried. You might have to come back at a later time to pick up your completed piece, depending on the workshop.
Beyond the Workshop:
- Discover the Pottery Square: Wander around the colorful squares and be in awe of the wide variety of ceramic works that the region’s artists have put on display. Handcrafted by a potter from Bhaktapur, you might find the ideal gift or keepsake.
- Watch the Process: You don’t have to attend a workshop to marvel at the potters’ expertise and the steady buzzing of the spinning wheels. Instead, just watch them at work.
A few points to consider if you are going for a visit :
- Wear loose clothing: You can expect to get a little messy because you will be working with clay. It’s best to wear clothing that you don’t mind getting clay on.
- Accept the Experience: Don’t stress over producing a perfect work of art this isn’t an art lesson. Prioritize having fun, picking up a new skill, and developing a connection to Bhaktapur’s rich cultural legacy.
- Support Local Artisans: Encourage local artisans by buying a finished clay item as a memento. This is a wonderful opportunity to help the regional craftsmen and bring a bit of Bhaktapur’s illustrious pottery heritage home.
Studying pottery-making in Bhaktapur is a trip through time rather than just a craft. You’ll get a sense of the city’s long-standing customs, see the artistry of many generations of potters, and make your unique contribution to Bhaktapur’s rich cultural tapestry. Are you prepared to get your hands messy and turn clay into a one-of-a-kind keepsake from your trip to Nepal?
Also Read:https://whatthenepal.com/2024/03/28/the-madal-nepals-musical-heartbeat/