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978-93-94174-56-6_12

ANUSANDHAN - A Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Research Repository Volume-1 pp 93-103
Editors: Dr. Shamim Ahmed Shamim Khan Barbhuiya. Dr. Saurabh Sarma. Dr. Kowser Alam Laskar. Dr. Atiqur Rahman Laskar. Dr. Gulenoor Islam Barbhuiya (2026)
ISBN: 978-93-94174-56-6
doi: https://doi.org/10.20546/978-93-94174-56-6_12
Chapter 12
The Living Legacy of Asharikandi Terracotta Craft
Jayanta Saikia1* and Rajib Ratan Kashyap2,
1 Madhabdev University, Narayanpur, Lakhimpur, Assam, India
2 Bodoland University, Kokrajhar, BTR, Assam, India
Abstract
Terracotta is widely recognized as one of the earliest and most enduring forms of human artistic expression, reflecting the innate creative instincts of civilizations since antiquity. The village of Asharikandi, located in the Dhubri district of Assam, holds a unique distinction as the largest craft cluster in India, where both pottery and terracotta are produced in tandem through traditional methods. The artisans of this region create a diverse array of terracotta objects, drawing inspiration from age-old traditions, cultural beliefs, ritualistic practices, and the evolving preferences of contemporary society. These handcrafted items, characterized by their distinct aesthetic appeal and cultural authenticity, enjoy significant demand not only in local markets but also across various parts of the country. The craft of terracotta in Asharikandi thus extends beyond mere economic activity; it serves as a vital repository of the region’s cultural heritage and social identity. Over time, while retaining its traditional essence, this craft has undergone notable transformations and innovations, enabling it to adapt to changing market dynamics. Consequently, the terracotta tradition of Asharikandi stands as a living example of how indigenous knowledge systems and artistic practices continue to thrive, sustaining livelihoods while simultaneously preserving and expressing the socio-cultural fabric of the community.
Keywords
Terracotta, pora matir shilpa, GI-tag, Dhubri district, hatima putul.
*Corresponding author; e-mail: saikiajayanta94@gmail.com
Cite this Chapter: Jayanta Saikia and Rajib Ratan Kashyap. 2026. The Living Legacy of Asharikandi Terracotta Craft. In: Dr. Shamim Ahmed Shamim Khan Barbhuiya. Dr. Saurabh Sarma. Dr. Kowser Alam Laskar. Dr. Atiqur Rahman Laskar. Dr. Gulenoor Islam Barbhuiya (Eds.), ANUSANDHAN-A Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Research Repository. Excellent Publishers, India. pp. 93-103. doi: https://doi.org/10.20546/978-93-94174-56-6_12
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