NAWALPARASI: In the quaint surroundings of a small three-room brick house in Devchuli Municipality-13, Nawalparasi, an artist named Govinda Bote is carving a niche for himself in the challenging world of stone art.

Despite the difficulties posed by carving stone, Govinda, a 43-year-old from the Bote community, has passionately dedicated the last 16 years of his life to sculpting stunning idols of various gods and goddesses.

Govinda, who developed a fondness for painting and handicrafts at a young age, now embraces the daily routine of bringing stones from the river to create exquisite statues.

“I find immense joy in crafting a beautiful shape out of stone with my own hands. This art will live on even after I’m gone, and that brings me satisfaction,” expresses Govinda.

Born into the Bote family, Govinda acknowledges the crucial support he received from his family, especially his father, who earned a living by fishing in the river.

Despite his father’s occupation, Govinda pursued his passion for drawing and eventually transitioned into crafting stone sculptures as a profession.

“I’ve crafted over 500 idols of gods and goddesses, selling more than 15 statues,” shares Govinda.

While the physical toll of concentrating and carving with chisels and stones occasionally leads to eye and head discomfort, Govinda finds solace in his work.

“It takes 20 days to make an idol, and I used to charge up to Rs 45,000 for one,” he notes.

Now, Govinda’s 21-year-old son, Kamal, has joined him in the art of stone carving.

Having studied up to grade 10 and briefly worked in India, Kamal returned home and is now learning the craft alongside his father.

With stone idols facing endangerment, Kamal feels a responsibility to preserve this traditional skill.

Father and son envision a future where the stone idol-making profession becomes more organized.

However, they express concern about the lack of support from authorities.

“It would be a relief if the local government provided the necessary tools for stone carving. Initiatives to pass on this skill to the new generation are crucial,” Govinda emphasizes.

Fearing that today’s youth might lose interest in this ancient craft, he underscores the need for concerted efforts to ensure the continuity of this profession.