A Symphony of History
The Terracotta pottery work of Gorakhpur is a traditional art form that transcends centuries. It is a craft that is being practiced for thousands of years. There is a belief amongst people that the Indus Valley Civilization that flourished around 2500 BC, was one of the earliest civilizations to use terracotta pottery. Made with the locally available clay called ‘Kabis’, found in the ponds only in the months of May and June, the Gorakhpur Terracota pottery has a distinctive natural red colour. Skilled potters mold the ‘Kabis’ clay in to various shapes like bells, vases, animal figures, bullock carts and lamps. Once the clay structure has been shaped it is dipped in a mixture of soda and mango tree bark and baked in a kiln at high temperatures. Terracotta products, especially the famous horse, has caught the fancy of many over the years.
A Unique Blend of Tradition and Creativity
An art with an ancient history, the Gorakhpur Terracotta Pottery is very popular among people. It is primarily the families of nearby villages in Aurangabad, Gularia, Bharwalia and Budhadih that practice this craft. Embedded in the local culture and history, the art of making Terracota pottery has been mastered and passed down through generations, with each new generation adding their own innovations and creativity to this art form. The designs are often inspired by mythology, nature and local folklore. It can be quite fascinating to watch the skill and precision with which the artisans work.
