Kumbharwada Today

Today there are about 1000 families of potter that live and work in Kumbharwada. Their living and working space is clean and well-ventilated. They also keep their doors open during the day, because they believe that this sign of welcome along with the cleanliness serves as an invitation to the Goddess Laxmi, the Hindu Goddess of Wealth.

Although they have lived and worked here for many years, many of the potters are concerned that their children have no interest in following their footsteps in the family business. Many of the children have been well-educated and hold high positions in big companies both in India and abroad. However, their parents continue to live simply and ply their trade as it brings a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment.

The potters art is an ancient one that has been handed down through the generations. The potters of Dharavi, produce many graceful earthenware pieces that delight the eye with their proportion and symmetry. An integral part of festivities, the production goes into over-drive to manufacture diyas at Diwali time, but care is still taken to ensure that the end result is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.