Patna: Restrictions on public celebrations and mass meetings in Bihar until February 6th has been sent into tizy idol maker even when they were putting the finishing touches to the idols of goddess Saraswati.
Saraswati puja may be imminent, but a sculptor in Patna are still waiting for orders idol.
In the middle Covid, craftsmen looked at a huge loss and the future uncertain.
With almost 5-6 days left for the Puja, the artisans have reduced the price of idols to find a buyer.
Artisan Anand Murthywala, pointing to a large pile of unsold idol in Bailey Road, said he will order more than 70% of idols at this time of the year.
“Because the government has banned the church mass and hold pujas society, we do not get orders for idols.
We received orders for large pagan mainly of religious clothing, groups, associations and organizations.
However, due to a mass meeting forbidden, they do not do reservations,” he added , Ranjeet SAH, other artisans near Ghat ban, looks to make calls to regular customers and ask them to buy idols.
“I have reduced the price to Rs 2,800 depending on the size of the idols.
Because people are not allowed to install idols in public places, I have not ordered.
I have created more than 100 big idol,” he said.
Krishna Singh, the other craftsmen who install an emergency store near Kadamkuan, said only three people who buy small Saraswati idol from him.
“Given the limitations, I avoid making big idols this time.
The situation was better last year in spite of the pandemic,” he said.
Gaurav Kumar, who looks to buy small Saraswati idol in Kurji, said, “I will do puja at home.
It is a tradition in my house that I follow.
We offer prayers and celebrate the festival at home.”