Laghu Udyog Bharati 's diwali clay candle Campaign: A revival of Tradition

Guwahati: Laghu Udyog Bharati, an organisation dedicated to promoting small-scale industries, has launched its annual campaign for the sale and distribution of clay candles ahead of Diwali. This initiative, which began four years ago, is designed to support Assam’s traditional pottery communities by providing a platform to market their handmade clay candles, which are widely used during the festival of lights.

Launch event highlights:
The campaign was officially launched at a ceremony held at Alok Bhawan in Kumarpara, Guwahati. Attendees included senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activist Guruprasad Medhi, who serves as the Metropolitan Sangh Chalak, along with other distinguished guests.
Arup Barpujari, who supervises the Rural and Industries Cell for Laghu Udyog Bharati, emphasised in his press release that the pottery community of Assam has long been known for producing quality clay products, including Diwali candles and other traditional utensils. However, in recent years, this community has faced significant challenges due to increased competition and interference from middlemen, leading to a decline in the pottery trade. As a result, many artisans have been forced to abandon their ancestral professions and seek employment elsewhere.

The campaign’s Impact:
Laghu Udyog Bharati’s initiative has been instrumental in reversing this trend. Since its inception, the campaign has grown steadily, with the sale of clay candles increasing from 100,000 in the first year to several lakhs in subsequent years. This growth has provided a critical lifeline to village artisans, enabling them to regain financial independence and continue their traditional craft.
The initiative not only helps preserve Assam’s rich heritage of pottery-making but also aligns with eco-friendly practices by promoting the use of biodegradable clay candles instead of plastic or synthetic alternatives.

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Encouraging a pollution- free diwali:
This year, President Ravi Sureka and Secretary Vivek Agarwal of Laghu Udyog Bharati are encouraging the public to participate in the campaign and opt for clay candles, which are both environmentally friendly and a means to support local artisans. The organisation hopes to raise awareness about the importance of choosing sustainable, handmade products during Diwali, contributing to a cleaner and more eco-conscious celebration.The campaign’s success over the years has not only benefited local artisans economically but also promoted the idea of a pollution-free Diwali, reinforcing Laghu Udyog Bharati's mission to protect traditional crafts and encourage environmentally responsible consumer habits.

Through this ongoing effort, Laghu Udyog Bharati is not only providing a market for these handmade goods but is also helping to preserve the cultural and economic fabric of Assam’s rural pottery communities.