Siliguri, 05th October: With only a few days left for Durga Puja, artist Doyel Das Dey of Madhya Chayanpara in Siliguri is busy creating ornaments for idols, adding to the beauty of the Goddess during the festive season.
From crowns and necklaces to earrings and hand ornaments, the elaborate adornment of Durga idols is an integral part of the festive celebrations. Behind these intricate designs are artists whose stories often remain unknown. Doyel Das Dey is one such artist from Madhya Chayanpara who has been making ornaments for idols for several years.
Doyel entered the world of this craft in 2003 under the guidance of clay artist Sushanta Pal. Having initially worked with clay to make ornaments, the craft gradually became her own identity.
Apart from Durga idols, Doyel has also made ornaments for idols of Kali, Manasa, Ganesha, Vishwakarma and Shani Dev. Her handmade ornaments have reached several Puja pandals across Siliguri. This year, she is also responsible for making ornaments for the idols at Champasari Jatiya Shakti Sangha and Pathagar Club.
Doyel begins working several months before Puja. She said she has enjoyed handicrafts since childhood and feels a sense of satisfaction when she sees ornaments made by her adorning an idol.
However, she said the journey has not been easy. The materials and designs used in idol ornaments have changed over time. While shola was traditionally used, artists now work with zari, beads, rangta, hardboard and other materials to create the ornaments.
Doyel believes this craft can help many women become self-reliant. She hopes to teach the art to more women in the coming days and help them build an income through the craft.
