Last of the ‘shokher hari’ potters | Artisans in Rajshahi struggling to preserve this cultural symbol
What makes "Shokher Hari", (a decorative clay pot made in rural regions) unique is its colours and presentation. It bears testament to Bangalee craftsmanship and the utilitarian purpose of a pot -- making it one of the most unforgettable earthenwares in our region. However, this craft, popularly made in Rajshahi, and a symbol of art and culture -- is ceasing to exist due to a lack of support. Sushanta Kumar Paul (62), award-winning maestro of artisanal pottery from Bashantapur, Rajshahi, and his family members are considered to be the last potters in the country who have been preserving the craft. But at present, many of Paul's family members have started engaging in agriculture alongside pottery for survival. During a recent visit to Sushanta's residence at Basantapur village in Paba upazila, this correspondent saw rooms of his house filled with newly harvested onions. He said they never engaged in agriculture before, but began cultivating crops to survive the pandem