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Business
Clay Idol Maker in Kalyanpur Struggles as Costs Rise and Demand Falls
✍️ Tripuratimes
🗓 26 Sep 2026, 06:37 PM
👁 10
A traditional clay idol craftsman in Kalyanpur is facing financial strain as raw material prices climb and customer orders dwindle.
Kalyanpur, a town renowned for its temple idols, is now witnessing a decline in the traditional craft as a local clay idol maker reports mounting challenges.
Rising costs of raw materials, especially clay and fuel, have pushed production expenses higher. The artisan also faces increased labor costs as skilled workers demand better wages.
At the same time, demand for handmade idols has fallen. Fewer festivals, a shift to pre‑made plastic idols, and competition from online marketplaces have reduced orders.
The maker says the combination of higher costs and lower sales is threatening the viability of the business, and he is exploring options such as diversifying product lines and seeking subsidies.
Rising costs of raw materials, especially clay and fuel, have pushed production expenses higher. The artisan also faces increased labor costs as skilled workers demand better wages.
At the same time, demand for handmade idols has fallen. Fewer festivals, a shift to pre‑made plastic idols, and competition from online marketplaces have reduced orders.
The maker says the combination of higher costs and lower sales is threatening the viability of the business, and he is exploring options such as diversifying product lines and seeking subsidies.