TERRACOTTA TITANS : THE STORY OF BANKURA’S MAJESTIC HORSES

Introduction

Bankura, nestled in central West Bengal, is a treasure trove of its deep-rooted cultural heritage and artistic legacy. Among its most celebrated contributions to Indian folk art is the iconic Bankura horse—a majestic terracotta sculpture that has transcended its ritualistic origins to become the cornerstone of traditional Indian rural craftsmanship.

The Bankura Horse
Image source – Wikipedia

Historical Origins and Cultural Significance 

The tradition of crafting terracotta figures in India dates back to ancient times, with artisans  molding clay into various forms for both utilitarian and religious purposes. Villagers would often  place terracotta animal figures beneath sacred groves or near temples, symbolizing the  fulfillment of aspirations and serving as offerings to local deities. In the Rarh region of West  Bengal, this practice evolved uniquely. It is believed that the tradition of making terracotta craft  items started with the Kumbhalkars of Panchmura, a village 16 km from Bishnupur, under the  Malla rule (late 7th Century – early 20th Century ). Historically, these terracotta horses were  integral to village rituals and were associated with the worship of Dharmathakur, the local sun  deity revered in the Rarh region whose legends portray him as riding horses, as well as goddess Manasa. Devotees would offer these meticulously crafted horses to seek blessings, prosperity,  and protection. The outskirts of many villages are seen to have a pipal tree with terracotta animal figures lying underneath it. They are symbols of fulfilment of aspirations of villagers. Such offerings are also made on the tombs of local Muslim Saints whose worship  is not limited to the Muslim community alone. Over time, the Bankura horse transcended its  religious connotations, emerging as a symbol of the region’s artistic heritage and a testament to  the artisans’ unparalleled craftsmanship. 

Dharma Thakur’s Than, Bankura District Image Source – Srejonee

Artistic Features and motifs  

Rarh region is also called Rangamati, the Red earth. One look at the horse makes it clear that they are yields of the same .  Their rust red and burnt brick skin is hued from Bankura’s soil, rich in iron ore. The allure of the  Bankura horse lies in its distinctive aesthetic and the intricate process of its creation. The  sculpture is characterized by a slender body, elongated neck, pointed ears, four hollow legs,  elaborate eyebrows that make the eyes seem focused and a chandmala-adorned forehead, stylized  mane and a dynamic stance, exuding a sense of elegance and vitality. They are adorned with  intricate traditional designs, including geometric shapes, floral motifs, and rhythmic lines. The  abstraction of form, combined with detailed ornamentation, showcases a harmonious blend of  stylization and realism. 

The Bankura Horse Image source – Srejonee

Craftsmanship

Crafting a Bankura horse is a labor-intensive process that demands precision and artistry.  Artisans begin by sourcing fine-textured clay, which is then meticulously cleaned and kneaded to  achieve the desired consistency. The sculpture is constructed in separate parts: the four legs, the  neck (crafted in two sections), and the face. Each component is shaped on the potter’s wheel,  then assembled to form the complete figure. Additional elements, such as the ears and tail, are  crafted using molds and affixed to the body. Once assembled, the sculpture undergoes a drying  process, first in a shaded environment to prevent cracking, and subsequently under the sun. The  final step involves firing the piece in a kiln, a process that not only hardens the clay but also  imparts the characteristic terracotta hue. By manipulating the kiln’s atmosphere—either allowing  smoke to escape for an oxidizing environment or sealing vents for a reducing environment— artisans can achieve different color variations, ranging from the traditional reddish-brown to  deeper shades.  The normal terracotta red color is obtained by letting out the smoke through the vents of the kiln after firing, and the black color is obtained by sealing the vents and not letting out the smoke.

Terracotta Horse making process
Image Source – Srejonee

Terracotta Horse making process Image Source – Srejonee

Evolution and Contemporary Relevance 

While the Bankura horse has its roots in religious and ritualistic practices, its appeal has  expanded far beyond these origins. In contemporary times, these sculptures have become  emblematic of Indian folk art, adorning homes, art galleries, and public spaces both within the  country and internationally. Their aesthetic appeal and cultural significance have made them  coveted collectibles and decorative pieces. The principal centres where the terracotta horses and  elephants are produced are Panchmura, Rajagram, Sonamukhi and Hamirpur. Each place has its own local style. The Panchmura-style of pottery is considered the best and the finest of all the four  types and the village continues to be the epicenter. Here, the craft has been preserved and passed  down through generations, with artisans continually innovating while staying true to traditional  techniques.  

The Bankura Horse
Image source – Wikipedia

Preservation and Challenges 

Despite its esteemed status, the tradition of crafting Bankura horses faces challenges in the  modern era. The rise of mass-produced goods, changing aesthetic preferences, and economic  constraints have impacted the livelihoods of traditional artisans. As of 2024, around 80 families  in Panchmura are practicing the craft. Of these, around 15 families have diversified beyond the  traditional form. Efforts are being made by governmental and non-governmental organizations to  support these craftsmen through initiatives that provide training, financial assistance, and  platforms to showcase their work. Additionally, the Geographical Indications Registry of India  has recognized “Bankura Panchmura Terracotta Craft” on 28th March 2018, offering a form of  intellectual property protection that helps preserve the authenticity and uniqueness of the craft. The Bankura horse was also the emblem of the All India Handicrafts Board, established in 1952  by cultural activist Pupul Jayakar and abolished in 2020 during the catastrophic COVID-19  pandemic.  

A large Bankura horse sculpture
Image Source – Paper Planes

Conclusion

Clay and creativity converge to shape this timeless tale of craftsmanship. The Bankura horse  stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry and artistic ingenuity of West Bengal. From its  origins as a sacred offering to its status as a globally recognized art form, it encapsulates the  enduring spirit of tradition and the adaptability of folk art in the face of changing times.  Preserving and promoting this craft not only honors the artisans who have dedicated their lives to  it but also ensures that future generations can appreciate and draw inspiration from this terracotta  wonder. 

The Bankura Horse Image Source – Orange Wayfarer