His Excellency Jigme Thinlye Namgyal, Consul General of Bhutan, visited the iconic terracotta village of Asharikandi in Gauripur, Dhubri district, Assam, on Tuesday, July 15. The visit was part of Bhutan’s broader initiative to integrate traditional art and heritage into the forthcoming Mindfulness City project at Gelephu, an ambitious vision championed by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Renowned for its Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged terracotta craft, Asharikandi has long held a prominent place in India’s artisanal landscape. The Consul General’s visit underscored growing interest in cross-border cultural synergy, with Bhutan exploring how Asharikandi’s vibrant and intricate terracotta art could find a place in its new city dedicated to mindfulness, sustainability, and spiritual well-being.
During his tour, Consul General Namgyal engaged directly with local artisans, observing their time-honored techniques of hand-moulding clay into artistic forms that blend utility with symbolism. “The art gives life to clay,” he remarked, moved by the dedication and precision of the craftsmen. He praised Asharikandi’s terracotta as a reflection of India’s deep-rooted heritage and expressed hope that these creations could soon resonate beyond borders in Bhutan’s evolving cultural and urban landscape. The delegation was guided by Binoy Bhattacharjee, Director of North East Craft and Rural Development Organization (NECARDO) and Chairman of the GI Tag Committee for Asharikandi Terracotta.
Bhattacharjee offered a detailed presentation of the village’s artisan ecosystem, showcasing both traditional and contemporary pieces while explaining the historical evolution of the craft. “Asharikandi’s terracotta is not just art; it is a way of life, shaped by generations of knowledge passed down through families,” said Bhattacharjee. “We are honoured that Bhutan recognizes the cultural depth of our work and sees it as a medium for mindfulness and harmony.”