Bodh Gaya's 'Artisan' Vijay: Roadside Sculptor's Art Demanded Globally

• Vijay Kumar, a 38-year-old sculptor from Bodh Gaya, is renowned for his intricate stone and wood carvings.
• He learned the craft from his father, Birju Lal Chaudhary, and now his sculptures are in high demand both in India and internationally.
• Vijay carves on a roadside cart near Mahabodhi Temple, creating statues of Lord Buddha, temple deities, and personalities.
• His collection includes sculptures ranging from less than an inch to 20 feet in stone and up to 7 feet in wood, with custom sizes also available.
• Despite humble beginnings and working from a cart, Vijay earns significantly, selling sculptures for up to 2 lakh rupees monthly during peak season.

Why It Matters: Bodh Gaya's Vijay Kumar, a roadside sculptor, has achieved international acclaim for his intricate stone carvings.