Satyanarayan Mohapatra
As Diwali illuminates homes and hearts across India, a remarkable innovation from the heartland of Chhattisgarh is poised to cast a special glow on the festival of lights. Ashok Chakradhari, an artisan with an unwavering passion for clay, has crafted a "magical lamp" that defies expectations, burning continuously for up to 24 hours. This extraordinary creation not only illuminates homes but also embodies the spirit of Diwali, blending tradition with ingenuity.
Ashok's journey began in the humble surroundings of Kondagaon district, where he was born into a family of potters. His childhood was marked by hardship, his education cut short as he joined his father in the age-old tradition of crafting clay objects. Together, they traversed the rural landscape, their hands shaping clay into tiles, pots, and other essential items, their skills providing a livelihood but little financial security.
Facing the winds of change
With the advent of modern materials like steel and plastic, the demand for traditional clay crafts dwindled. Ashok witnessed fellow artisans abandon their ancestral craft, seeking more stable incomes in a rapidly changing world. But he remained steadfast, his heart rooted in the art of clay, determined to find a way to revive its appeal and relevance.
The inspiration
Years ago, at an exhibition in Bhopal, Ashok encountered an artisan from Sarguja who had breathed new life into clay through innovative techniques. This encounter ignited a spark in Ashok, inspiring him to explore the limitless possibilities of clay modeling. He spent countless hours experimenting, driven by a desire to create something unique and captivating. His perseverance culminated in the "magical lamp," a testament to his ingenuity and dedication.
The Magic
This extraordinary lamp, crafted with meticulous precision, features a continuous oil flow mechanism that sets it apart from traditional diyas. The upper chamber, shaped like a traditional kettle, holds the oil, which flows through a carefully crafted clay pipe to the lower chamber where the wick resides. This ingenious design ensures a steady supply of oil to the wick, allowing the lamp to burn uninterrupted for an extended period.
A hope for artisans
Ashok's creation has garnered widespread attention, transforming him into a local celebrity and bringing a flood of orders from across the country. He has even made his magical lamp available on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, expanding its reach and impact.
But Ashok's motivation goes beyond financial gain. He sees this lamp as a way to revive the fading art of pottery and inspire fellow artisans to embrace innovation while preserving tradition. He shares his knowledge and skills at the Jheetko Meetki Art Centre in Kondagaon, empowering others to carry forward the legacy of clay artistry.
As Diwali approaches, Ashok's magical lamp is poised to illuminate countless homes, casting a warm glow that symbolizes hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of tradition. This innovative creation not only brightens the festival of lights but also serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the power of creativity and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
