IIT Kanpur Revitalizes Pottery: Clay Cups Create Jobs, Boost Traditional Art

• Ankit Singh of IIT Kanpur integrates modern technology with traditional pottery to produce durable, attractive clay cups.
• The cups undergo biscuit firing and 1000°C firing, making them stronger and safer than traditional kulhads.
• This initiative provides employment opportunities for village potters, especially women, who participate in design, shaping, and finishing.
• Regular orders have significantly improved the economic situation and confidence of potter families.
• Munj grass mudhas (stands) are also produced, providing additional employment for local grass artisans and combining traditional arts.

Why It Matters: IIT Kanpur's innovation in pottery art is empowering rural artisans and reviving traditional crafts through technology.