“I’m Mohammad Afroz, a black metal craftsman with over 20 years of experience. I’m proud to carry on a tradition that’s been passed down through generations.

My small workshop is filled with tools, molds, and metal scraps waiting to be transformed. Today, we’re creating metal statues of Lord Shiva and a few more monuments. We start by melting brass scraps – old vessels, door knobs, taps, locks – anything that can be repurposed. The furnace, a pit in the ground fueled by charcoal, is intense, but I’m used to it.

Next, I prepare the mold with utmost care, using special sand from Hyderabad mixed with chemicals. It’s a precise task; any mistake can ruin the final piece.

I pack the sand tightly into a frame, ensuring every detail is perfect. Then, the molten brass as well as aluminium is poured swiftly into the mold, its golden glow a fleeting spectacle of liquid fire.

After a few minutes, the brass cools and hardens. I remove the sculpture and begin the painstaking process of polishing, a job that requires both patience and skill. The dust is our biggest concern filling the air and settling on my skin. Despite knowing the health risks, I persevere, driven by a deep sense of duty to my family and our craft.

Our statues and reliefs of Hindu deities and various figures are priced reasonably, ranging from Rs. 150 to 700, depending on size and material. We also offer customization services, transforming old brass or aluminum bits into unique and meaningful pieces.

Despite the challenges and minimal returns, I take immense pride in my work. It’s more than just a means of livelihood; it’s a testament to our heritage and craftsmanship. I dream of a brighter future for my children, where they can thrive in more favorable environments.”