Framing Tradition: The Role of Photography in Documenting Delhi’s Dying Craft
Welcome to another captivating photo essay, this time by Abdulla Shinose CK. We'd love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to comment below and, if you're interested, share your photo essay with us. Your perspectives add valuable dimensions to our collective exploration.
A camera can save a tradition from being forgotten.
Pottery has been part of Kumhar Gram for generations, but today, this heritage is at risk. Mass production, pollution laws, and urbanization are pushing Delhi’s potters to the edge, threatening a craft that has shaped their identity. If no one documents their work, their history could disappear with them. Photography is one of the last ways to capture what might soon be lost.
Photographs don’t just preserve images—they preserve stories. In Kumhar Gram, every clay pot, every kiln, every hand covered in dust holds a piece of history. But history fades if no one pays attention. That’s why photographers, journalists, and anyone who cares about disappearing traditions should turn their focus here. If no one captures it now, there may be nothing left to capture.
Each clay pot in Kumhar Gram tells a story—but soon, only photographs may remain.
- Martin
Clay and Ashes: The Potters’ Colony of Uttam Nagar by Abdulla Shinose CK
Tucked away in the busy lanes of West Delhi, Kumhar Gram, or the Potter’s Colony, is a living testament to the endurance of tradition in an ever-evolving city. Founded in the 1960s by families migrating from Alwar, this community of over 700 families has maintained its age-old craft of pottery-making, which remains central to their identity and livelihood.
As one meanders through the dust-laden paths of Uttam Nagar, the air hums with the rhythmic spinning of potter’s wheels. The colony’s narrow lanes are lined with workshops, where every house is both a home and a production site. Piles of clay sit drying in the open, while artisans carefully craft everything from kulhars to decorative idols. The quiet tapping of fired clay resonates from every corner, each beat echoing the legacy of a craft passed down through generations. Yet, despite the labor-intensive art being central to their lives, the potters’ future is uncertain.
The rise of mass-produced plastic and metal items has diminished demand for traditional clay products. Moreover, the colony faces scrutiny from environmental authorities for the pollution created by the kiln operations. These challenges, compounded by caste-based marginalization, paint a picture of a community struggling to preserve its cultural heritage while confronting the harsh realities of modern urbanization.
However, amidst these challenges, the spirit of the potters endures. Known as Prajapatis, after the Vedic god of creation, their craft is not merely a livelihood but a vital connection to their roots. In their hands, clay becomes more than just material—it becomes a symbol of survival, resistance, and identity. As the community continues to craft their wares, their struggle to preserve both their art and their place in a rapidly changing world carries on, generation after generation.
What personal stories or anecdotes from the potters of Kumhar Gram illustrate their connection to this craft and their resilience in the face of modern challenges?
Kumhar Gram, located in Uttam Nagar, West Delhi, is home to approximately 800 families who have been practicing pottery for generations. This community has faced significant challenges, particularly concerning environmental regulations. In 2019, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) issued directives to demolish traditional furnaces in the area due to pollution concerns. Despite these challenges, the potters remain deeply connected to their craft, viewing it as an integral part of their identity and heritage.
How does the community address the environmental concerns associated with their kiln operations, and are there any ongoing efforts to adopt sustainable practices?
The traditional wood-fired kilns used in Kumhar Gram have been identified as contributors to air pollution, leading to scrutiny from environmental authorities. In response, the community has been exploring alternative methods to reduce their environmental impact. Some potters are considering the adoption of electric kilns, which produce fewer emissions. However, the high cost of these kilns poses a significant barrier. Additionally, there have been discussions about using cleaner fuels and improving kiln efficiency, but widespread implementation remains a challenge due to financial constraints.
What role do younger generations play in preserving or transforming the pottery tradition of Kumhar Gram, and how do they envision its future?
The younger generation in Kumhar Gram is at a crossroads. While some are pursuing education and careers outside of pottery, others are dedicated to preserving and transforming the tradition. Innovative young potters are experimenting with contemporary designs and utilizing digital platforms to market their products to a broader audience. They envision a future where the craft is modernized to meet current market demands while staying true to its traditional roots. This approach aims to make pottery a sustainable livelihood for future generations.
- Abdulla Shinose CK
