From the archive record
This footage captures the interior of Murti Bhandar, a small yet richly stocked craft shop located within the bustling market streets of Varanasi. Despite its compact size, the shop is visually dense, with racks tightly filled from end to end with small handcrafted sculptures. These pieces are made from sand, metal, and other traditional materials, each reflecting detailed artistry. As the camera moves through the narrow aisles, rows of colourful idols of gods and goddesses come into view—some painted in bright, vibrant tones, others showcasing a more muted metallic finish. The shelves are arranged in a way that every corner feels alive with craftsmanship, giving the shop an intimate, art-focused ambience. The colourful miniatures and polished metal figures together highlight the diversity