Natungram Dolls
Poush Mela 2011, Santiniketan
Images of Bengal, India
Natungram, Purba Bardhaman
Natungram is the hub of wooden doll makers also known as ‘Sutradhars’ (narrator or storyteller), probably because they make characters from ancient folklore and mythology and tell stories through their dolls. Carved out of a single piece of wood, these dolls from ancient folklore and mythology are characterised by their vibrant colours and distinctive ethnic style. The owl, considered auspicious as the escort of the goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi, made in Natungram, enjoys an iconic status among Bengal’s handicrafts.
A Folk Art Centre and Community Museum has been developed for the artists by the Department of MSME&T, Government of West Bengal. with lodging facilities equipped with all basic amenities. Visitors at Natungram can witness the artists at work, explore the Folk Art Centre to learn about the craft and its technique and learn the stories behind it.
Poush Mela / পৌষ মেলা
An annual fair and festival that takes place in Santiniketan, in Birbhum District in the Indian state of West Bengal, marking the harvest season. Commencing on the 7th day of the month of Poush (around 21/22 December), the fair officially lasts for three days, although vendors may stay up until the month-end. The key characteristic of this fair include live performances of Bengali folk music, notably baul and fakir songs.
Natungram Dolls
Poush Mela 2011, Santiniketan
Images of Bengal, India
Natungram, Purba Bardhaman
Natungram is the hub of wooden doll makers also known as ‘Sutradhars’ (narrator or storyteller), probably because they make characters from ancient folklore and mythology and tell stories through their dolls. Carved out of a single piece of wood, these dolls from ancient folklore and mythology are characterised by their vibrant colours and distinctive ethnic style. The owl, considered auspicious as the escort of the goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi, made in Natungram, enjoys an iconic status among Bengal’s handicrafts.
A Folk Art Centre and Community Museum has been developed for the artists by the Department of MSME&T, Government of West Bengal. with lodging facilities equipped with all basic amenities. Visitors at Natungram can witness the artists at work, explore the Folk Art Centre to learn about the craft and its technique and learn the stories behind it.
Poush Mela / পৌষ মেলা
An annual fair and festival that takes place in Santiniketan, in Birbhum District in the Indian state of West Bengal, marking the harvest season. Commencing on the 7th day of the month of Poush (around 21/22 December), the fair officially lasts for three days, although vendors may stay up until the month-end. The key characteristic of this fair include live performances of Bengali folk music, notably baul and fakir songs.