IDOL-MAKING AND SPATIALITY: CONSONANCE OF PLACE-MAKING, IDENTITY AND CULTURAL PRODUCTION

Place-making is a multifaceted process that imbues physical spaces with cultural, social, and economic significance, resulting in environments that promote distinct identities. Kumartuli, a historic artisanal neighborhood in Kolkata, exemplifies this process with its unique blend of spatiality, socio-ritual practices, and cultural heritage.Known for its centuries-old idol-making customs, Kumartuli is a vibrant place where innovation and heritage coexist, shaping the identity of its artisanal community and contributing to Kolkatas cultural landscape. This paper examines the congruence of idol-makers adaptation to place-making processes and visitors, particularly photographers, perceptions of Kumartulis spatiality.Fieldwork was conducted in September when idol-making activities were at their peak, and included unstructured interactions with ten practicing idol-makers as well as informal discussions with visiting photographers. Thematic data analysis reveals that Kumartulis dense network of narrow lanes, clustered studios, and riverside accessibility shape artisanal craft while also contributing to the performative and symbolic dimensions of place-making. The findings show how the artisanal fraternity balances tradition and innovation, adapting creatively to spatial constraints while preserving their socio-ritual practices and cultural identities.This study emphasizes Kumartulis functionality as a site of cultural production and identity negotiation by placing it within theoretical frameworks of place-making, postcolonial urbanism, and informal spatial networks. It adds to conversations about urban informal settlements by highlighting their value as hubs of heritage, creativity, and perseverance in a contextuality of urban neighborhood that is experiencing rapid transformation.