Ghurni, about 150km from Kolkata, is nestled along the banks of the Jalangi River, which flows through Krishnanagar. The town, also called Krishnagar, came into existence in the mid-1600s when the royal dynastic rulers of Bengal were extending their fiefdoms and zamindaris.

The local king, Krishna Chandra, who was fond of art and culture, is said to have brought some Ghurni clay doll craftsmen to Krishnanagar from Natore (now in Bangladesh), the royal house of which had links with the royal house of Krishnanagar. 

Innovation in clay craft

While the craft has evolved over centuries, what has remained constant is the focus on the intricate craftsmanship including the fine finishing, detailing and the emphasis on vibrant colours, not to mention the range of themes that the artisans work with.

Bag says while large orders come from clubs and communities during festivities like Durga Puja, smaller clay dolls are sought after at times of other celebrations like the Jagannath Rath Yatra of Puri or Jhulan festival when people in Bengal decorate corners of their homes and even public spaces with tiny toys depicting human activities.

The uniqueness of the Ghurni or Krishnanagar clay dolls lies in the masterful replication of the human figure, draped in real clothes, and the quality of finish, capturing the minutest details