Rangpur, Oct. 8 -- The image of Goddess Durga is slowly emerging from clay, straw and bamboo as artisans in Rangpur work long hours to complete idols ahead of the Hindu community's biggest religious festival.

Inside workshops and temples, the scene is one of intense activity.

Preparations are underway to celebrate Durga Puja at 5,753 mandaps across the eight districts of Rangpur division.

Some artisans apply layers of clay to bamboo-and-straw frames, while others carefully shape the faces and features of the idols.

Painters add the final touches with brushes, gradually transforming rough clay structures into colourful representations of Durga and her family.

With Durga Puja drawing closer, artisans are working from morning until late...