Durga Puja Idol Makers Struggle Amid Rising Costs in Gauripur

As Durga Puja nears, artisans in Gauripur, including noted names like Babul Paul and State awardee Karen Malakar, work tirelessly on idols. However, steep rises in raw material prices—up to 50%—have pushed production costs high, with idols priced between ₹25,000–₹36,000. Many puja committees pay in instalments, adding to artisans’ woes. Locals urge government support, fearing the younger generation may abandon this traditional craft.