In the land of Moenjodaro and Harappa, where ancient craftsmanship still whispers secrets, the pottery tradition remains alive but struggling.
This traditional art form on the brink of extinction. Soon, pottery-making might become a relic confined to art school curricula.
Tucked away in Rawalpindi’s Gawalmandi, amidst auto repair shops, lies “kumhaaron ki gali”, a haven for clay creations. Historically a non-Muslim enclave, Muslim immigrants from Eastern Punjab settled here post-Partition, bringing their pottery legacy.
“kumhaaron ki gali” offers an array of handmade items, from water tumblers to gardening pots. However, despite this existing market and centuries-old heritage, shop owners lament the decline of traditional pottery. Factory-made clay items from Lahore and Gujranwala have replaced handmade ones, leaving artisans to merely sell rather than create.
A few vendors still craft local items like traditional clay ovens, tandoors, made from black clay and sheep hair. Yet, despite gas shortages, these
ovens find few buyers.
In Rawalpindi, some artisans like Hasan Ali continue traditional pottery methods, learned from their forefathers. However, they acknowledge the art’s decline.
According to Shahid Waheed, Associate Professor at NCA’s Ceramics Department, “The decline stems from potters’ limited education and market exposure. Evolving techniques have replaced traditional methods, leaving little space for artisans. Government support is crucial for the survival of traditional pottery-making and its craftsmen”.
Talking to Radio Pakistan, Dr. Shafique Ahmad told, “Clay pots are antiseptic and they protect us from various diseases including Cancer”.
It is need of the hour to promote clay pottery in the country and make necessary arrangements for their exports to increase foreign currency reserves.
Source: Radio Pakistan