Kolkata, Oct 9: With the internet expanding exponentially, can Kolkata's traditional idol makers stay behind?
Certainly not!
Plans to launch a community website for Kumartuli, the colony of the city's traditional idol makers, so that they could reach potential overseas buyers of Durga idols failed to take off two years ago. However, more and more artisans are now embracing the web, going online and targeting NRI patrons of Durga pujas by enabling them to view and book idols online.
Kumartuli, which churns out about 4,000 Durga idols every year, started sending fibreglass idols of the mother goddess to Europe and the US about eight years ago, as that is the material preferred by overseas clients because fibreglass is light, durable and easy to transport. Traditionally, the idols are made of clay.
Inspired by the success of 15 potters who have launched individual websites in the last two years, more idol markers are jumping on to the internet bandwagon to tap into markets abroad.
