Kolkata: The Bengal govt’s focus on Rathayatra celebrations this year has infused enthusiasm among artisans on Ramesh Chandra Dutta Street near Girish Park metro station, popularly known as Rath Para, where hundreds of craftsmen are working round the clock to meet the demand for handcrafted chariots ahead of the festival.The optimism follows a series of announcements by CM Suvendu Adhikari, including financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each to 60 Rathayatra committees and the setting up of Seva Kendras at 75 major fair venues across the state to assist devotees and visitors.Against this backdrop, Rath Para, a hub for handcrafted chariots, has witnessed a surge in activity. Artisans here collectively supply nearly 1,000 chariots and accessories every year to clubs, organisations and households across Bengal.For many craftsmen, this year’s festival has brought renewed hope.“The govt’s focus on Rathayatra has given us fresh hope,” said Biswanath Samanta, an artisan, while adding finishing touches to a decorated chariot. “When people see the administration actively supporting the festival, interest naturally grows. More clubs and families will buy chariots, and we believe demand will only rise. We are hopeful that in the next few years the business will increase progressively.”The artisans primarily use thermocol, strips of bamboo and paper to craft the chariots, combining traditional skills with lightweight materials to create structures ranging from small household models to larger decorative pieces commissioned by clubs and community organisations.Another artisan, Baban Maity, said craftsmen long struggled to receive fair returns despite the painstaking labour involved in making the chariots. “We spend weeks, sometimes months, making these raths by hand, but do not receive enough for our labour,” said Maity. “This time, the govt’s attention has created a positive atmosphere.”
