Sacred soil from West Bengal molds Kolkata's Durga Puja idols

The annual Durga Puja in Kolkata begins with the collection of soil from designated sacred sites across West Bengal. Local artisans regard this earth as auspicious, believing it imbues the idols with divine energy. Once gathered, the soil is washed, sifted and mixed with natural binders before being molded into the intricate forms of the goddess and her companions.
In the workshops of North Kolkata, craftsmen hand‑craft each figure, employing traditional techniques passed down through generations. The process involves shaping the clay mixture on wooden frames, allowing it to dry, and then painting the finished idols with vibrant colours. The use of sacred soil is a ritual in itself, marked by prayers and chants before the first touch of the material.
The practice reinforces community bonds, as neighbourhoods contribute soil and support the artisans. It also underscores the cultural continuity of Durga Puja, linking contemporary celebrations to age‑old beliefs about purity and reverence for the land.