Silchar : Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and National Service Scheme (NSS), Assam University, Silchar, in collaboration with Shilpangan–Institute of Art & Craft organised ‘Mrittika' a one-day hands-on training workshop on traditional clay-based art at Panibhora Village in Cachar district on Saturday. This community outreach event aimed to revive interest in indigenous crafts and support local artisans facing competition from plastic products.
The workshop, led by master artisans Gandhi Paul and Bapan Paul provided students and faculty with practical training in crafting clay products. Prof. M Gangabhushan in his workshop inaugural address highlighted the rich heritage of Barak Valley’s artisans and stressed on the urgency to preserve these fading traditions.
Vice Chancellor of Assam University Prof. Rajive Mohan Pant emphasised on leveraging technology to enhance production and market reach. 'Through innovation, tourism, and digital marketing, we can uplift artisans’ livelihoods,' he said. Prof. Pant reasserted Assam University’s commitment to facilitate the preservation of traditional crafts with modern tools for sustainable growth.
The participants engaged in live demonstrations, learning techniques to diversify clay products. Dr. Binoy Paul coordinated the hands-on session, while Dr. Rajkumar Mazumder (Visual Arts), Dr. Pinak Pani Nath (Teacher Training College), Bimalendu Sinha (Freelance artist), Sandipan Dutta Purkayastha (Shilpangan) were also present and called upon the youth to champion this cultural legacy.
The workshop concluded with certificate distribution. The Vice Chancellor interacted with the local artisans at Panibhora and felicitated the two master artisans engaged in today’s workshop and expressed hope that the students who attended it would contribute towards preserving clay art and thereby form a new generation of custodians for India’s intangible heritage.
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