Siliguri, 25th October: Several Durga idols remain unsold in Siliguri’s Kumartuli even after the conclusion of Durga Puja and the immersion of idols, leaving local sculptors concerned about their losses. They are now hoping to find buyers during the upcoming Basanti Puja.
Every year, sculptors spend months crafting Durga idols in preparation for the festival. However, this year, many idols remained unsold even after the celebrations ended. The sculptors are now struggling to store them safely, with some idols being placed in shop corners and storerooms.
According to the sculptors, the narrow lanes of Kumartuli make it difficult to transport the idols, increasing the risk of damage. These constraints also create inconvenience for buyers, affecting sales and adding to their business challenges.
Meanwhile, preparations for Kali Puja idol-making have already begun, further intensifying the shortage of storage space for the unsold Durga idols. The sculptors have also expressed concern over the lack of proper storage facilities provided by the government.
In view of these challenges, the sculptors have urged the state government to improve infrastructure in Kumartuli by widening the roads and providing a suitable storage facility to protect unsold idols and ease their difficulties.
