BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 20th January 2026: As January 23 draws near, the air is filled with anticipation for the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and learning. Like every year, the occasion has sparked visible excitement and enthusiasm among students. Schools, colleges, and educational institutions are buzzing with preparations—puja pandals are being decorated, lighting plans are underway, and rehearsals for cultural programs are in full swing, engaging both students and teachers alike.
The festive spirit is equally evident in the idol-making hubs, where clay, paint, and skilled craftsmanship come together to shape graceful idols of Goddess Saraswati. Every year, educational institutions customarily organize Saraswati Puja, and this year is no exception. As a result, clay artisans have received several orders from schools and colleges, keeping their workshops active during this season.
However, artisans point out that the overall puja market has not met expectations this year. Compared to previous years, the number of household Saraswati Pujas has declined noticeably. Many families who once worshipped the goddess at home are no longer doing so, leading to fewer overall orders. This has cast a shadow of uncertainty over idol sales, with artisans fearing reduced profits.
“We do get regular orders from schools and colleges,” said one artisan, “but the decline in household pujas has significantly reduced the total number of orders. While we may manage to cover our costs, expecting substantial profit this year seems unlikely.”
Adding to their challenges is the harsh winter. The increased intensity of the cold has made working at night particularly difficult. As a result, artisans are trying to complete as much work as possible during daylight hours to ensure that the idols are ready on time.
Meanwhile, preparations at educational institutions have reached their final stages. For students, Saraswati Puja is more than a religious observance—it is a day of joy, togetherness, and tradition. With just two days to go, the countdown has begun.
Soon, cities and villages alike will come alive in devotion to the Goddess of Learning. Despite a subdued market, there remains a shared hope among artisans and the public that the festive spirit and cultural legacy of Saraswati Puja will continue to shine brightly.
