Cachar: Artisan Flees, Leaving Durga Idols Incomplete; Chaos Grips Kalain’s Puja Committees

The Durga Puja preparations in Kalain have been thrown into disarray as local idol artisan Kajal Paul fled, leaving the idol-making process incomplete. More than 50 puja committees in the area, who had entrusted Paul with the responsibility of crafting their Durga idols, were left in shock and confusion. Yesterday, many puja committees and houses celebrating Durga Puja were assured delivery, but when they reached the workshop in Kalain, none of the workers including the owner Kajal Paul were found there. This led to chaos last evening and later police had to intervene to figure out a solution.

The idols were due for delivery on Panchami as per the agreement. However, when committee members arrived at Paul’s workshop to collect their idols, they were met with an alarming sight—half-finished statues and no sign of the artisan. Further attempts to reach him were futile, as his phone remained switched off. The situation compelled the committees to alert the police.

With the festival fast approaching and no other options left, the puja committee members were forced to take matters into their own hands. Many have now taken up the difficult task of completing the unfinished idols themselves, despite lacking any prior experience in idol-making.

One of the devotees, who was seen adjusting the hair of Mahishasur, expressed their frustration. “This is the first time we are celebrating Durga Puja at our home, and we were among the first to place our order. We have no expertise in this field, but since all arrangements have been made and we must worship Maa Durga, we are doing whatever we can. We are not from the department so we are doing whatever we can by taking the example of other idols and finishing the work just by looking.” the devotee shared. “They were supposed to deliver the idol this evening, but when we came to the workshop, we found none.”

The unexpected disappearance of the artisan has not only disrupted the festivities but also tested the resilience of the devotees, who are now relying on collective efforts to ensure the completion of their sacred idols in time for the celebrations. This also raises the question of why Kajal Paul and his other workers flee the scene leaving behind the idols incomplete. Was rainfall last week a problem that hindered the completion?

The police are currently investigating the situation, but with time running out, the community has been left to find creative ways to overcome this crisis and keep their festive spirits alive.