Exhibition of bronze and brass statues begins today

Organised by the Bengal Gallery in cooperation with the American Centre, the exhibition titled 'Oitihya Aparup' (splendid tradition) will take you back to the Pal period from 8th to 11th century through showcasing statues of Shiva, Krishna, Bishnu, Parvati, Ganesh, Garur and other Puranic characters.

Craftsmen of Dhamrai Metal Craft have made these statues.

"The artistic motion of the joint statues of Shiva Parvati, Uma Maheshwra and Urdha Natraj will surely win the hearts of the people," said Mahbub Alam Pallab, assistant director of Bengal Foundation, at a press conference yesterday.

Trees, animals and utensils such as plates and jugs made of bronze and brass will also be put on display.

Sukanta Banik, managing director of Dhamrai Metal Craft, said a number of families had been involved in creative metal work even after independence, but their number has reduced alarmingly because of lack of assistance from the government.

The bronze and brass industry has still immense prospects, and if patronised, it can earn huge foreign currency, create employment opportunities and even brighten the image of the country, he said.

"Even the utensils made of bronze and brass are also environment-friendly," he noted.

Urging the government to help develop the industry, Sukanta said, "If the industry do not get support, the tradition will be lost forever."

Subir Chowdhury of Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts and Manoshi Banik of Dhamrai Metal Craft were also present at the press conference.