How do Ghada and Surahi retain their significance even in an era of modern refrigerators? What are potters of Bihar doing to preserve their traditional craft and livelihood?
Patna: Amidst the scorching summer heat—where, on one hand, the modern refrigerator is becoming a necessity in every household—the ghada (earthen pot) and surahi (earthen flask) continue to remain the most affordable and reliable means of quenching thirst for people in villages and low-income families. These earthen vessels, which naturally keep water cool without the need for electricity, are still affectionately referred to as the "poor man's refrigerator."
The ghada and surahi hold a special place in India's traditional culture. Indeed, water from an earthen pot is considered to be more beneficial than the excessively chilled water produced by a refrigerator.
For low-income families, the ghada and surahi are invaluable assets, as they are inexpensive to purchase and require no electricity to operate. Consequently, people can utilize them with ease, even in areas where access to electricity is unavailable. Furthermore, these vessels are environmentally friendly, as their use generates absolutely no pollution.
The ghada and surahi are not merely utilitarian objects; they also serve as enduring symbols of Indian tradition and rural life. Today, as people increasingly turn back toward natural and health-conscious choices, the significance of the ghada and surahi appears to be on the rise once again.
Vijay Prajapati, an artisan who crafts surahis, said that the demand for these earthen flasks surges significantly as soon as the summer heat intensifies. He explained that smaller surahis typically sell for prices ranging from Rs 80 to 120, while larger ones fetch between Rs 150 and 300.
The water stored in these clay vessels remains naturally cool—a quality that provides much-needed relief to people during the sweltering summer months. Prajapati explained that water from an earthen pitcher (surahi) is beneficial for health, as it does not cause the adverse effects associated with the excessively cold water produced by refrigerators. He added that the rising use of modern refrigerators and plastic containers has negatively impacted the demand for traditional earthen pottery. Nevertheless, potters continue to work tirelessly to preserve their traditional craft and livelihood.
Rapidly growing demand for earthen pitchers equipped with taps
Vijay Prajapati mentioned that there is currently a rapidly growing demand in the market for earthen pitchers equipped with taps. He explained that a small tap is fitted near the base of this type of pitcher, allowing water to be dispensed easily without having to tilt or move the vessel. These pitchers are increasingly being recognized as highly practical for use in homes, shops, and offices. He noted that sales of these specific pitchers tend to be higher during the summer season compared to standard earthen pitchers.
Many other artisans in Patna who craft earthen pottery, said that people are once again gravitating back toward using surahis and traditional earthen pots (ghadas) compared to previous times. They said that during the summer months, earthen pitchers prove to be the most economical and health-conscious choice for people belonging to the poor and middle-class segments of society.
Sustaining a livelihood becomes a challenge
However, artisans in Patna also said that once the peak season for earthen pottery concludes, sustaining a livelihood becomes a significant challenge for those involved in this trade. During the remaining months of the year, some of them earn a living by crafting and selling diyas (earthen lamps), kulhads (earthen cups), flower vases, various other pottery items, and decorative pieces. Many potters also engage in farming and manual labor to help cover their families' daily expenses.
A potter Hulas said that the surge in demand for earthen products during the festive and wedding seasons provides them with some much-needed relief. He emphasized that the traditional art of pottery remains the primary identity of his family and serves as the very foundation of their livelihood.
Crafting an earthen pot requires a great deal of hard work
Banwari, a local potter, explained that crafting an earthen pot requires a great deal of hard work and patience. He described the process: first, high-quality clay is gathered; it is then kneaded and shaped into a pot on a potter's wheel. Subsequently, the pots are left to dry in the sun for several days before being fired in a kiln.
A wide variety of earthen pitchers are produced for the market
Banwari further explained that a wide variety of earthen pitchers (surahis) are produced for the market. He said that, beyond the standard plain pitchers, there is also a substantial demand for pitchers featuring intricate designs, vibrant colors, and decorative carvings. Some pitchers are crafted with long necks—a design believed to be more effective at keeping water cool—while shorter pitchers are typically made for general household use. He said that people are now also purchasing decorative pitchers to use as ornamental pieces in their homes and hotels. He concluded by stating that the surge in pitcher sales during the summer season provides potters with ample employment opportunities.