For centuries, the Mesram clan of Gonds from Keslapur in Indervelli mandal got earthen pots used in Nagoba puja, made by the Guggilla potter family of the remote Sirikonda in Ichoda mandal.
This unique and perhaps the longest of such privileged relationships anywhere is likely to end with the current head of the potter family as his children have deviated from their traditional means of livelihood. Guggilla Swamy, the 40-year-old potter, is the last in his family to continue in the traditional profession which includes making of ‘sacred’ pots for the Gonds who use it during the famous Nagoba jatara, being held this year from January 19. His children -- Rajeshwar and Gangadhar -- have opted to take the education route aimed at landing with government employment eventually.
“I know,” Swamy makes a brief observation when his attention was drawn to him being the last one to make the sacred pots for the Mesram Gonds. “My father Rajanna taught me to make these pots early in my childhood,” he recalls his initiation into the relationship.
The Adivasi Gonds strictly adhere to their religious tenets which require, among other things, maintenance of purity of the religious symbols including the earthen pots in question. “As the Guggilla potter family is well acquainted with our customs, our elders seem to have preferred getting the pots made by it,” says Mesram Manohar of the most critical aspect of the special relationship.
“I do not begin work for the day without taking bath,” Swamy states, as he tries to proffer an example of maintenance of sanctity. “The clay has to come from the local kunta,” he adds.
As per the centuries-old practice, a special two-man team of messengers from the Mesram clan formally places the order for the pots about a month before the jatara is to begin. Another team comprising a caravan of five bullock carts receives the pots at the potter's home five days before the start of the holy event.
Until about two decades ago, the Adivasis used to barter brass vessels as payment for the pots. They now pay Rs. 5,000 for the lot which includes about 120 earthen vessels and a 100earthen lamps.
