BHADRAK: Every year before the Festival of Lights, the kumbhars (clay artisans) of Jayanti village in Chandbali block burn midnight oil to meet the heavy demand for diyas.The situation this year, however, is not the same. The villagers are now busy reconstructing their houses that were damaged in the recent flood.The village is home to around 50 ‘kumbhar’ families who make diyas and other utility objects. “The Kumbhar Shala where the clay objects are made by the villagers have been washed away in the flood this time. There is no other place where the diyas can be made,” said Dayanidhi Rana, the village head.The village, surrounded by the river Mantai, is deprived of basic amenities like drinking water, education, health facilities and communication. Though their products like earthen pots and utensils are in demand throughout the year, Diwali is the most profitable time for them as their diyas are the most sought after in the district.Besides, the villagers prepare ‘Mati Ghoda’ during Pahila Baisakh festival.“We have no funds to rebuild our house and the Kumbhar Shala. Though there are orders, we cannot meet them as we need money for reconstruction works,” said Hadi Bandhu Muduli, a villager.
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