Veteran idol maker Haripada Pal receives lifetime achievement award

For more than six decades, Haripada Pal has transformed clay, straw, and colour into gods, goddesses, and works of art. On 20 June, the veteran idol-maker was honoured with the Crafts Villages Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 at Bengal Shilpalay Auditorium in Dhanmondi, in recognition of a lifetime devoted to preserving one of Bangladesh's most enduring artistic traditions. 

Born into an artisan family in Kuralia village of Ashulia, Pal learned the craft from his father and grandfather before receiving further training in Kumartuli, Kolkata's renowned hub of idol-making. Returning to Bangladesh before independence, he established his workshop in Shakhari Bazar , Old Dhaka, where he has spent decades creating artworks that have become part of the country's cultural and religious landscape. 

The award, presented by the Bangladesh National Crafts Council, included a commemorative plaque, flowers, and a cash prize of BDT 100,000. But the event was about more than celebrating one artist. It also highlighted the contributions and challenges of craftsmanship across Bangladesh.

Speakers at the event discussed several issues affecting the craft sector, including the lack of GI certification, limited protection of traditional designs, and difficulties in accessing raw materials. They noted that despite their important role in preserving cultural heritage, many artisans continue to face economic hardship and limited recognition.

Tarun Kumar Pal, Managing Director of  Crafts Villages Limited, emphasised the importance of connecting rural artisans, women entrepreneurs, and creative workers with international markets, describing handicrafts as a vital part of Bangladesh's cultural identity.

The evening's most memorable remark came from Luva Nahid Chowdhury, Director General of Bengal Foundation. "Awards do not truly honour a person," she said. "Rather, through such recognition, we honour ourselves."

Her words reflected the spirit of the occasion: a celebration not only of Haripada Pal, but of the generations of artisans whose work continues to keep Bangladesh's cultural traditions alive.

In the closing speech, Chandrasekhar Saha, President of the National Crafts Council of Bangladesh, expressed gratitude to guests, artisans, and members of the media. 

Executive member of the NCCB and crafts rights activist S. Saifur Rahman delivered a biographical tribute honouring the life and artistic legacy of Haripada Pal and moderated the programme.