HT Bureau
DIBRUGARH, Sept 26: After a damp Durga Puja celebration for the last two years due to Covid-19 pandemic, the idol makers are again back in business in Dibrugarh.
Last two years, the idol makers have faced lots of problems running their families because of the Covid-19, which has hit the business hard.
Among them, Rampada Shit (34), an idol maker has faced lots of problems running his family. Rampada is now busy making idols in Dibrugarh.
Rampada hails from Midnapore district of West Bengal, this year he has received a contract to make three idols for Durga Puja in Dibrugarh.
Talking to this correspondent, Rampada said, “This year, I have received three contracts for Durga Puja. Last two year, the business was hit hard due to the pandemic, and I have faced lots of difficulties running my family. I had to sell vegetables and fish to bring food to our table.”
“I am happy that all restrictions of Covid-19 have been lifted and this year, we are again back in business and Durga Puja will be celebrated in a bigger way. For the last two month, a five-member team has come over from Midnapore to make Durga idol. Our team has been working day and night to finish the work on time. Till date, we have finished the order of Mitra Sangha Puja,” Rampada said.
He further said, “All the materials used in Durga idol were brought from Kolkata. The cost has increased in the last two years. Many big budget puja committees have curtailed their budget due to the price rise and Covid-19 pandemic which has affected the business.”
Another idol maker, Uttam Paul said, “Last two years, we have faced huge losses because of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has affected our business. This year we are making 15-20 idols. The cost of materials has increased in comparison to the previous two years. But we are happy that people are organising puja this time without any restrictions.”
