Lokkhir – Pencha (the Owl of Goddess Lakshmi)

Last year, during my visit to Kolkata, I had the wonderful opportunity to explore the Arts and Crafts Mela. At this event, talented artisans from all over Bengal showcased their beautiful creations, including various wooden owlets, which are a special type of wooden owl that holds great significance in the ancient artistic tradition of Bengal. These owlets have a history that dates back about 250 years and are considered to bring good luck. As a result, Bengali households, both in rural and urban areas, cherish and keep them. 

Legend has it that these wooden owlets were worshipped by many families in Bengal to seek blessings from the goddess of wealth, Laxmi. One of the popular stories tells about a mother and child who were guided by the owlets to offer their devotion to Goddess Laxmi. Despite their poverty and meagre meals, the little boy never hesitated to share his food with the birds. This act of kindness later brought him good fortune. In addition to Lokkhir - Pencha, there are other famous dolls, such as Gour-Nitai, Krishna dolls, and Royal couple dolls. These dolls trace their origins to Natungram, a small village in the Bardhaman district of West Bengal. 

Collecting these wooden owlets and dolls has become a beloved tradition for many, and they are treasured not only for their artistic beauty but also for the positive symbolism they represent in the homes of the Bengali people.