Anglian Potters

Khurja Kilns

We have received a plea from Wali Hawes (see below) calling potters everywhere to unite to save the kilns at Khurja, Uttar Pradesh, India.

A brief google search suggests that old kilns in the area are probably to become victims of a necessary modernisation of the ceramic industries in that area, aimed at reducing terrible pollution levels and reducing fuel costs inorder to compete in global markets. However, it must be possible to both modernise and also preserve the rich history of the area [Editor].

Wali Hawes writes...

It has come to my notice that a group of kilns in Khurja, Uttar Pradesh, India are being demolished. These kilns form an important part of the heritage of Khurja and as an extension part of the heritage of pottery in India. It is a terrible to know of the destruction of what are a priceless testimony to the history of Khurja.These kilns were introduced to Khurja in the 50`s by a Japanese by the name of Aizu Kato from Seto. This created a veritable revolution in the industry as can be found in the growth figures covering the industry during this period. Aizu Kato worked in Khurja for several years and was funded by The Colombo Plan. In keeping with Government Plans for the area. I attach information below.

NINTH PLAN WORKING GROUP
STRESSES ON EMPLOYMENT IN HANDICRAFTS SECTOR

The Working Group on Handicrafts for the 9th Plan has recommended that the following areas be given a major thrust:
  • Creation of increased employment opportunities to achieve higher standard of living of craftspersons individually and collectively in rural and urban craft clusters through efficient production practices, professional management and enlarged domestic as well as overseas marketing network.
  • Preservation of cultural heritage through research and documentation, region/craft specific strategies and protection of crafts facing extinction.

With regard to the "preservation of cultural heritage" I think the plans to demolish the kilns in Khurja is a terrible mistake and all attempts should be made to preserve what is a treasure of Industrial Archeology and a Legacy for the future. There are many examples where preservation has lead to a development of the area in cultural and economic terms. The Gladstone Pottery in Stoke (UK) and The Sanponmichi in Tokoname (Japan) are two glowing example.

Something needs to be done. Unfortunately I don`t have e-mail addresses of the people who may have the power to put a stop to this. Only their snail mail. Sorry about this. If there is anything you can do PLEASE DO IT NOW!

Best wishes,
Wali Hawes

POTTERS OF THE WORLD IGNITE!!!
www.walihawes.com

Pottery Development Office
industrial area ,G.T.road
Khurja U.P India
91-5738-242054

DM Bulandsharhr
DM colony road
Bulandsharhr U.P.
India

Director of Industries
Industry office
Kanpur U.P.
India