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Uttar Pradesh

Gorakhpur Terracotta: Where Art Meets Clay !

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Treasures of Gorakhpur

Gorakhpur, an ancient city of historical significance, is situated along the banks of the Rapti River, approximately 272 km to the east of Lucknow. Abode of Gorakhnath, a renowned ascetic, Gorakhpur is a land with its own religious, cultural and historical importance. The work place of famous personalities like writer Munshi Premchand and the mystic poet Kabirdas, the place is also associated with Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism and Lord Mahavir, the father of Jainism. Amongst the many attractions that Gorakhpur has to offer to its visitors is its unique Terracotta Art. An ancient craft cherished for its intricate craftsmanship and historical importance; terracotta is a term used for defining sculptures made in earthenware. In fact, the word terracotta in Italian means “baked earth”. 

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.

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Uttar Pradesh

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Finding Serenity in the Art of Pottery

Gorakhpur’s Terracotta Pottery is a treasure waiting to be explored. The eco- friendly terracotta products are simple and soothing sculptures that need to be taken home. Handmade with love and precision, there is a simple elegance in each piece. Good for both decorative and utilitarian purposes, these make for great souvenirs. Visitors can go to the local market in Hussain Ganj to explore the art of pottery making and buy products. By purchasing directly from local artisans, visitors can not only help support the livelihoods of potters but also help keep this art form alive for future generations. So, in the next visit to Gorakhpur, be sure to explore these handmade earth’s treasures that have withstood the test of time.