Lerela Khanikar was the man who was created Nagaon Puranigudam’s unique wooden Durga Pratima.
Who was Lerela Khanikar ?
The wooden Durga idol dates back to 1901, credited to a local artisan named Lekhadhar Sarma, affectionately known as “Lerela Khanikar.” Initially, Sarma crafted clay idols for the annual Durga Puja celebrations. However, witnessing the ephemeral nature of these creations, which were immersed in the river post-festivities, he aspired to create a more enduring representation of the deity. This led him to carve an idol from the wood of the Bael tree (Aegle marmelos), known for its durability and sacred significance in Hinduism.
The Wooden Idol
The wooden idol of Goddess Durga in Puranigudam stands as a testament to traditional craftsmanship. Carved meticulously from Bael wood, the idol showcases intricate details that capture the divine essence of the goddess. Unlike conventional practices where idols are immersed after the puja, this wooden idol is preserved and reused annually. Each year, it undergoes repainting and is adorned with new traditional Assamese attire, often donated by devotees. This practice not only maintains the idol’s sanctity but also strengthens the community’s bond with their cultural heritage.
Cultural Significance
The decision to create a permanent wooden idol was driven by a desire to retain a tangible connection to the divine year after year. This enduring symbol serves as a focal point for devotion, allowing the community to engage deeply with their faith. The idol’s permanence eliminates the need for annual immersion, a practice that often symbolizes the transient nature of life, thereby offering a sense of continuity and stability to the devotees.
Preservation and Maintenance
Maintaining a wooden idol for over a century requires meticulous care. The responsibility of preserving the idol has been passed down through generations of the Sarma family. Currently, Jogen Sharma, the great-grandson of Lerela Khanikar, undertakes the task of repainting and refurbishing the idol each year. His dedication ensures that the idol remains in pristine condition, reflecting both its historical significance and spiritual importance.
The Durga Puja Celebration
Durga Puja in Puranigudam is marked by traditional rituals and a deep sense of devotion. The absence of modern extravagances allows the community to focus on the spiritual aspects of the festival. The wooden idol, dressed in traditional Assamese silk attire such as the “Sador-Mekhela,” becomes the centerpiece of the celebrations. Devotees from various parts of Assam and beyond visit Puranigudam to witness this unique manifestation of faith and tradition.
Some Other Pratima Creators
Sculptors :
- Kishori Mohan Pal:Â A sculptor from Kolkata who has been making Durga idols since 1982Â
- Rakhal Pal:Â A cult figure in the Barabazar market who created outstanding idolsÂ
- Mohan Banshi Rudra Pal:Â A top sculptor in Kumartuli who was influenced by the East Bengal schoolÂ
- Nepal Pal:Â A top sculptor in Kumartuli who was influenced by the East Bengal schoolÂ
- Gouranga Pal:Â A top sculptor in Kumartuli who was influenced by the East Bengal schoolÂ
- Sanatan Pal:Â A top sculptor in Kumartuli who was influenced by the East Bengal schoolÂ
- Alok Sen:Â An art school graduate who changed the concept of Durga idols with realistic elementsÂ
- Sanatan Dinda:Â An artist in Kumartuli who blended the traditional and contemporary stylesÂ
- Bhabotosh Sutar:Â An artist in Kumartuli who blended the traditional and contemporary stylesÂ
Conclusion
The wooden Durga idol of Puranigudam stands as a symbol of enduring faith, artistic heritage, and community resilience. This century-old tradition not only distinguishes Puranigudam’s Durga Puja from others but also offers a profound example of how cultural practices can be preserved and cherished across generations. As devotees gather each year to celebrate, the wooden idol serves as a timeless reminder of their shared history and unwavering devotion.
External Resources :