Sunamganj, Nov. 8 -- Once a source of endless joy for rural children, traditional clay toys are gradually losing their appeal in Sunamganj as plastic toys and mobile phones increasingly dominate children's leisure and entertainment.

Clay dolls, cows, birds, frogs, elephants, boats and miniature kitchen utensils were once among children's favourite playthings. During village fairs and religious festivals, children eagerly waited for the opportunity to buy their favourite clay toys, often persuading their parents to take them to the stalls.

During Kartik Puja, buying clay birds was a particular attraction, with children competing to get one before others. Small clay boats carrying burning oil lamps were also floated on water, creating che...