Importance of pitchers and water jugs remains intact even in the modern fridge era

In the midst of severe heat in Patna, where modern refrigerators are becoming a necessity for every household, earthen pots and surahis are still the cheapest and most reliable means of quenching people's thirst in rural areas and poor families. These clay vessels, which keep water cool naturally without electricity, are still called the "refrigerator of the poor". Earthen pots and surahis have special importance in Indian traditional culture, as they are made of clay, which has the natural ability to keep water cool. The fine pores of these vessels allow water to slowly seep out and evaporate, cooling the water inside. Drinking this water in the summer provides refreshment and good health. Compared to the extremely cold water from refrigerators, earthen pot water is considered more beneficial. For poor families, earthen pots and surahis are very useful as they are inexpensive to buy and do not require electricity. They can be used easily in areas where there is no electricity. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly as they do not cause any pollution. Earthen pots and surahis are not only useful items but also a symbol of Indian tradition and rural life. As people are turning back to natural and healthy things, the importance of earthen pots and surahis is increasing again. Surahi maker Ram Kumar said that as the heat increases, the demand for surahis also increases. He said that small surahis are sold for 80 to 120 rupees, while large surahis are sold for 150 to 300 rupees. The water in clay surahis remains cool naturally, providing relief to people. He said that surahi water is also beneficial for health as it does not cause harm like extremely cold water from refrigerators. He said that due to the lack of need for electricity, surahis are the cheapest and most useful means for poor and rural families. He said that the increasing use of modern refrigerators and plastic vessels has affected the demand for traditional clay vessels. Despite this, potters are working hard to preserve their traditional skills and livelihood. Ram Kumar said that these days, the demand for surahis with taps is increasing rapidly in the market. He said that this type of surahi has a small tap at the bottom, making it easy to pour water without having to lift the surahi. This surahi is considered more useful in homes, shops, and offices. He said that its sales are higher than ordinary surahis during the summer season. Potter Rakesh said that people are turning back to surahis and earthen pots again. He said that surahi water is cool and tasty, providing refreshment to the body. Potter Shivnath said that clay vessels are eco-friendly and do not incur any electricity costs. He said that during the summer season, surahis are proving to be the most efficient and healthy alternative for poor and middle-class people. He said that the season for earthen pots and surahis is from March to July. As the heat increases, the demand for clay pots and surahis increases rapidly. Sales are highest in April, May, and June as people use them to drink cool and pure water. After the rains start, the demand slows down. However, some people use surahis and earthen pots throughout the year. Shivnath said that after the season for earthen pots and surahis ends, it becomes a challenge for people in this profession to earn a living. He said that during the rest of the year, they sell diyas, kulhads, planters, clay vessels, and decorative items. Many potters also work as farmers and laborers to support their families. He said that during festivals and wedding seasons, the demand for clay products increases, providing some relief. He said that the traditional potter's craft is the real identity and basis of their family's livelihood. Local potter Suresh said that making clay pots requires a lot of hard work and patience. He said that first, good clay is collected, then it is kneaded and shaped into a pot on a wheel. After that, the pots are dried in the sun for several days and then baked in a kiln. He said that during the summer season, the demand for pots increases as people still prefer to drink cool and pure water from clay pots. He said that even in the era of modern refrigerators, earthen pots remain an important part of Indian tradition and potters' livelihood. Potter Suresh said that various types of surahis are made in the market. He said that apart from ordinary clay surahis, there is also a high demand for designer, colorful, and decorated surahis. Some surahis have long necks, which are considered helpful in keeping water cooler, while small surahis are made for domestic use. He said that people are now buying decorative surahis, which are used as decorative items in homes and hotels. He said that the increased sales of surahis during the summer season provide good livelihood for potters.