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Glow of clay lamps
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On the occasion of Karthigai Deepam, most households prefer to stick to tradition and light clay agals. This means brisk business for potters in the city.
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KARTHIGAI DEEPAM, one of the last important festivals in the year, is one of Tamil Nadu's oldest festivals and distinctive to the State. People light lamps outside their homes to mark this day, which falls in the month of Karthigai when the star Krithika is on the ascendant, and usually on a full moon day.
Some people start lighting lamps in their homes from Deepavali and double the number everyday. The lamps, much like those lit for Deepavali, symbolise prosperity and joy and are indispensable to Karthigai Deepam. Most households stick to tradition and light clay agals in their verandas and balconies, but in the house, some use metal lamps and even scented candles.
Viswanathan, a potter on Kodambakkam High Road, says business is best during Karthigai Deepam time. The tiny clay agals cost Rs. 10 for a dozen but there are many types of ornamental clay and terracotta lamps that cost up to Rs. 75 per dozen. He says Rs. 75 is the maximum that people are willing to pay for lamps so it's not economically sensible to make larger lamps. "If they're going to spend more than that, they'll go in for metal lamps," he says.
Viswanathan's family has been in the business, peddling their clay creations on the same roadside for the past 32 years. They used to make pots and lamps earlier but lack of good clay in Chennai has made them abandon pottery for retailing. "We just make small pots and lamps to keep in touch with the trade," he says, kneading a red-brown lump of clay to get the right consistency. He sources his wares from Kharagpur, Pondicherry and Kancheepuram.
Flowerpots are big business throughout the year, especially with bulk orders coming in from companies such as SPIC and Parry's. Other earthenware that sell well are terracotta decorative pieces and lampshades. The new trend of using candles hasn't dented his business as he thinks Karthigai Deepam is essentially a traditional festival so while people may try "new things" they will never abandon clay lamps. "After all the glow of a clay lamp is definitely more warming and welcoming than any other lamp or candle."
S.U
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