Bhaktapur's Kumal Community Busy Making Clay Diyos and Palas for Tihar Festival
Summary
The Kumal community in Bhaktapur is busy making clay diyos and palas ahead of Tihar, with demand rising for traditional lamps used in homes and courtyards. Families say preparations begin months in advance, and the craft continues to draw buyers despite competition from electric lights and plastic decorations.
Key Points
- The Kumal and Prajapati families in Bhaktapur have begun large-scale production of clay diyos, palas, kalash and matka items for Tihar.
- Roshan Prajapati says about 5 lakh diyos-pala have been made this year, and the work requires months of preparation and sunny weather for drying.
- Clay for the products is sourced from places such as Sankhu, Harisiddhi and Duvakot, and the goods are distributed through Kathmandu to markets across the country.
- Despite competition from electric lights and plastic decorations, traditional clay lamps remain important for cultural and religious reasons.
