Gone are the days when women couldn’t hold a job outside the home. Now, they are joining the armed forces and police, thereby disproving the long-held views that only men could enter these professions. Until a few years ago, idol-making was primarily a male-dominated profession. However, now women from the families of idol makers are now joining their male family members in sculpting idols. In short, it can be said that women are making their presence felt in every realm of life. OTV gets candid with one such girl who gets into idol-making so that she can pursue higher studies.
Hailing from Malkangiri, Usha Kiran had once dreamt of pursuing higher studies and getting a cushy job. She was not able to fulfil her dreams due to financial constraints at home. After passing Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) with flying colours, she has started making idols and selling them along the National Highway near the office of Malkangiri District Collector to make her dream come true and help her parents financially.
Usha's two brothers were seen assisting her in making Ganesh idols. While her elder brother has completed Bachelor in Arts, her younger brother studied till Class 10. However, they had to discontinue their study owing to financial crunch. All three siblings are now busy making Ganesh idols of various sizes which attract passersby to stop there and buy idols.
Born to idol-maker parents, Usha along with her brothers are following her forefathers’ occupation by making and selling idols. She is raking in the moolah as Ganesh idols made by her are in huge demand in the local markets. Through idol making, she wants to convey a good message to society.
Usha said, “I have completed B.Sc this year. I am also looking for a job now. Since my childhood, I have been keenly observing my parents who are idol makers by profession. So it came naturally to me. I would like to say that no work is small. If you are passionately involved in something, you will script success in that field.”