Products made of clay are disappearing

The art of pottery making is a dying art these days. The potters of Pakistan are one of the most neglected groups in the country. Due to the lack of demand, the products made of clay are disappearing.

“It is a traditional thing, which is on the decline, and I have an affection for it. I am still keeping the manual art of making earthenware. These pots look beautiful at home. They are like ornaments,” says Asher.

“I have learned the techniques and styles from my forefathers and continue to uphold the age-old tradition of using hands to shape the wares,” adds Asher.

“At one time, clay pottery had much value all over the country, which is why the potters used to spend busy time making different types of pottery. As in the past, there is no such appreciation for various pottery such as plates, pots, bowls, and lids. As a result, many have joined other professions leaving this traditional profession,” says Shayan Askari.

“The use of clay pots, tawa, water pitchers, flower tubs, vases, and other decorative items for house decoration can still be observed in a limited range among people. There is skill and beauty in their work,” says Arsalan Haider.

“The specialty of clay pottery is that they are not only limited to practical products but also artistic coating is associated with these industries. Besides, they are environment friendly,” says Kashan Zaidi.

“These days these products are enhancing the beauty of the drawing room of the loving families. However, there was a time when these products were used in every house,” says Ayan Hussain.

“In the era of capital and modernity, as people’s tastes have changed, the importance of pottery has decreased. As a result, the profession of potter is almost extinct due to evolution. Yet many look for joy in tradition, hoping for freedom from mechanization. Even a few potters could not completely abandon this traditional profession,” says Zahra Ali.

“My grandfather and father were involved in this profession and I am still involved, our family was doing well before but now there is a financial crisis, and people are buying pottery made of clay,” says Kazim Hussain.

“In the name of globalization, one should not abandon one’s traditions; every country in this world has rushed towards modernity with its traditions and culture. In this situation, like other handicrafts, it is necessary to protect the art of pottery making,” says Zegham Abbas.

Zegham Adds, “That is why we have to focus on making the products per the demand, which is happening to some extent. For example, potters make terracotta, tubs, and rings. If the potters are trained to make the terracotta tools much in demand and export to foreign countries, the sector will improve and many people will get employment.”