Kandhamal's Kartik Devotion Drives Booming Business for Drum Makers
The sacred month of Kartik has ushered in a wave of religious fervor across Kandhamal district, creating a significant economic boom for one group in particular. Artisans who craft and repair the 'Nadia Khol', the traditional drum essential for kirtans, are experiencing a surge in business as devotees prepare for the holy month's rituals.
Villages throughout the district are observing the Kartik 'brata' (fasts). Daily life now involves temple visits, fasting, and devotional songs, which all culminate in the approaching 'Panchuka' and 'Rahasa Jatra'. These celebrations, especially the daily village processions (parikrama), are incomplete without the resonant beat of the Khol. This has led to a sharp increase in demand for both the repair of old drums and the purchase of new ones.
Artisans See Influx of Work
In the Phiringia block, this seasonal demand has transformed local markets into bustling hubs for instrument makers. Workshops in Phiringia bazaar, and near Mashri Pada chhak are filled with artisans engrossed in their craft. They are working tirelessly to meet the flood of orders.
This economic opportunity has attracted skilled craftsmen from other districts as well. Anil Bagh, an instrument artisan from Sonepur district, has been operating his workshop in Mashri Pada for the past year. He notes that business in the Phiringia block is very good, allowing him to provide employment to three other artisans.
Anil Bagh expressed his satisfaction with the current market. He has proactively stocked a large number of new drums anticipating high sales. He is also receiving a steady stream of old drums for repair. He remains optimistic that the coming days will bring even more business, boosting his income as the devotional activities intensify.
