The Hands Behind the Creation of Maa Durga: An Inspiring Sculptor’s Story

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By- Rebika Priyadarshini

Bhubaneswar: Durga Puja is not just a celebration of faith and devotion; it is also a tribute to the skilled artisans who bring the Goddess to life through their craftsmanship. Behind every beautifully crafted idol lie months of dedication, patience and artistic imagination.

But what goes through a sculptor’s mind while shaping Maa Durga’s face? How does he decide her expression, and what does he experience while painting her eyes?

To explore the fascinating world of idol-making, Kalinga TV spoke to Prabhat Kumar Muduli, popularly known as Bapi, an experienced sculptor who has been creating Maa Durga idols for nearly two decades.

Muduli, who began his journey in 2007, is currently crafting the idol for the Patia Garh Durga Puja pandal in Bhubaneswar. He is also making idols at six other locations in the capital city of Odisha, including Raghunathpur, Andharua, Chandaka, Patia Station, Nandan Vihar and Gandarpur.

From Straw and Clay to Maa Durga’s Divine Form

Explaining the process, Muduli said idol-making begins with a basic structure made of paddy straw and twine (jota), followed by layers of clay, sand, mud and cloth. Once the structure takes shape, the finer features are sculpted before the idol is painted and decorated with attire and ornaments.

“We generally use river clay to make the idols. For painting, we use Asian, Akanksha and fabric paints, depending on the requirements of different parts of the idol,” he explained.

According to him, the time required to complete an idol depends on its size, design and intricacy.

The Auspicious Beginning: Anukula

Idol-making is closely associated with traditional customs. Muduli explained that the work begins with ‘Anukula’, an auspicious ritual marking the commencement of idol-making.

However, he clarified that he does not follow any specific set of rituals throughout the remaining stages of sculpting

When Maa Durga Guides the Artist’s Hands

Perhaps the most fascinating part of the conversation was Muduli’s description of painting Maa Durga’s face, particularly her eyes.

“When I begin, my only thought is that the idol should look beautiful. But once I stand before Maa Durga and start painting, I feel something beyond my artistic skill takes over”, he said.

“I cannot explain how or where my brush moves to create the final expression. Sometimes Maa Durga’s face carries a gentle smile, while at other times she appears fierce. I believe it happens according to the Goddess’s own will.”

For Muduli, painting the Goddess’s eyes is more than an artistic exercise. It is a deeply spiritual experience in which he feels guided by divine blessings.

Asked about the most challenging aspect of idol-making, he replied, “Creating the face is generally the most difficult part. But once I begin, everything gradually becomes easier, almost as if the work starts taking its own course.”

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A Mysterious Encounter He Still Remembers

Recalling an unusual experience, Muduli narrated an incident that strengthened his faith in Maa Durga.

“One afternoon, I was exhausted and had fallen asleep for a while. Suddenly, a woman approached me and said, ‘Why are you sleeping? Get up and finish your work.’”

The incident left a lasting impression on him. Muduli believes the mysterious woman might have been Maa Durga herself, reminding him to complete his work.

He recalled that his growth as a sculptor gained momentum after the incident, further strengthening his belief that the Goddess’s blessings have guided his artistic journey.

Challenges, Competition and Changing Expectations

Discussing the growing competition in idol-making, Muduli said the expectations of Puja committees and devotees have changed considerably over the years.

“Everything depends on the budget. When the budget is good, we get more opportunities to experiment with designs. Every year, people expect something new and unique, and we try our best to meet those expectations,” he said.

Despite the challenges, he has never seriously considered abandoning his profession.

“Whenever the work becomes difficult, my love and devotion towards Maa Durga, along with my passion for art, motivate me to continue,” he added.

An Environment-Friendly Approach

Muduli also emphasised the importance of environmental responsibility in idol-making.

“We remain conscious of protecting water bodies and the environment. We try to use eco-friendly colours, clay and other materials while creating the idols,” he said.

More than Just an Idol

For Muduli, creating Maa Durga is not merely about shaping clay or applying colours. It is a combination of artistic skill, hard work, devotion and a tradition he has nurtured for nearly 20 years.

As devotees admire the magnificent idols during Durga Puja, the contributions of artisans like Muduli often remain behind the scenes.

His story offers a reminder that behind every divine expression and beautifully painted pair of eyes are the patient hands of a sculptor who believes the Goddess herself guides his art.

Also Read: Mysterious Hilltop Thakurani Peetha in Mayurbhanj: Abode of the Seven Sister Goddesses

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