Ishwardi’s traditional pottery industry disappearing
Ishwardi’s traditional pottery industry is as changing consumer preferences, rising costs and falling demand push potters away from their ancestral profession.
Once, the pottery neighbourhoods of Arambaria, Palideha and Muladuli in Ishwardi echoed with the sound of spinning wheels. Courtyards were filled with earthen pots, pans, pitchers and clay jars drying in the sun. For hundreds of families, pottery was their main livelihood. Today, that familiar scene is gradually disappearing.
The growing use of plastic, melamine and aluminium products has reduced demand for earthenware. Many pottery homes now have unused wheels, while the once-busy neighbourhoods have become quiet.
Ishwardi Upazila Nirbahi Officer Hasan Mohammad Shoaib said there is no direct government assistance specifically for potters. However, training and low-interest loans may be available through various associations and the Department of Youth Development.
Local residents said more than 200 families were once involved in pottery in these areas. The number has now fallen to around 25-30. Many have left the profession, while those who remain face declining income, rising production costs and an uncertain future.
During a visit to Arambaria, a few families were still making pottery. Some shaped clay on wheels, while others dried or fired the finished products. But the activity was far less than in the past.
Potter Chetan Pal said earthen products once had widespread demand. Pitchers, cooking pots, pans and clay jars were common household items. Now, plastic, aluminium and other modern products dominate the market.
Potter Sanjoy Pal said he spends Tk 15,000-16,000 a month on production but earns only about Tk 8,000 in profit.
“Despite working day and night with the entire family, we cannot achieve financial stability,” he said.
Lalu Pal said he continues the profession inherited from his ancestors despite falling demand and rising prices of clay and other materials.
Women potters are also struggling. Shrabani Rani Pal said, “I do not know any other work, so I am holding on to this ancestral profession. But it is difficult to support the family from the sales.”
Anjali Pal said 40-50 types of products, including household items and children’s toys, were once produced. Now, only 8-10 types are made. Demand increases somewhat in summer, but work declines sharply during the rainy season.
The craft, however, still has potential. Madhabi Rani of Muladuli, who has worked in pottery for nearly 30 years, said decorative products such as flower vases, dinner sets and tea cups still have some demand, although poor promotion limits their market.
Potters said earthenware is not only a household product but also part of local culture and heritage. They believe modern designs, technical training, easy-term loans and marketing support could help revive the industry.
