Changing Dynamics of the Terracotta Industry in Uttar Dinajpur: A Sociological Inquiry Into Production Shifts

The present study examines the changing nature of the pottery industry in Kunore village, focusing on the transition from traditional to contemporary production patterns. Pottery, once a vital hereditary occupation fulfilling essential household and ritual needs, has gradually declined due to the impact of modernization, industrialization, and changing consumer preferences. The study is based on primary data collected through in-depth interviews with 40 respondents using a random sampling method. The findings reveal that in earlier times, potters produced a wide range of functional items such as cooking vessels, water pots, and ritual objects, which were integral to rural life. However, in contemporary times, production has become limited and more market-oriented, focusing mainly on decorative items and seasonal products. The study identifies several factors responsible for this shift, including the availability of alternative materials like plastic and metal, rising production costs, lack of institutional and financial support, and declining interest among younger generations. The paper concludes that the pottery industry in Kunore village is facing serious challenges that threaten its sustainability. It emphasizes the need for policy intervention, skill development, and market support to revive this traditional craft and preserve its cultural significance.