Creating Durga - Photo Book by Artist Smrita Jain

This project throws light on the talents, efforts, and creativity of the kumbhars—the artisans who craft realistic-looking idols depicting the epic of Durga. The images will take you on a journey of the several stages of making the idols. Artists hard work brings life to the marathon of idol making that is invigorated by the power of mantras…majestic, mystic, and bustling!

Background: In India, Durga one of the deities, is considered most powerful one, who can save people from the clutches of evil. The creation of Durga and veneration to her is no different. Over the years, the legend of Durga has garnered several interpretations. The immensity of the mythology is so complex that the accuracy of the actual story is now left to mere existence and significance. Durga Puja, a festival spanning four days (once in a year in the month of October), celebrates Durga’s return after killing Mahishasura. She is welcomed to the homes of thousands along with her family, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Karthik and Goddess Saraswati who are believed to be Durga’s sons and daughters. It is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India that brings together many skills that have survived generations. 

ISBN	0988600404, 9780988600409
Length	111 pages
Subjects	Religion  ›  Hinduism  ›  Theology