Dhubri's Pith Craft Artisans Struggle to Preserve Traditional Art Form
Artisans specializing in the traditional shola or kuhila (pith) craft in Dhubri district are facing significant challenges in preserving this age-old art form. Many report that their earnings are insufficient to support their families, leading to concerns about the survival of this cultural heritage.
Cultural Significance and Community Practice
Primarily practiced by the Malakar community in Dhubri and parts of western and central Assam, this art form holds deep cultural significance. In Dhubri alone, approximately 1,500 Malakar families possess knowledge of the craft, which plays a vital role in local celebrations, idol decorations, and the region's broader handicrafts tradition.
Artisans create a variety of items from the soft white branches of locally grown plants, including:
- Decorative figures
- Masks
- Religious motifs
- Garlands
- Ornamental pieces
Recognition Without Economic Support
Despite earning recognition from cultural forums and at the national level, the pith craft community has not seen economic flourishing. Artisans from Debottar Hasda noted that their community has gained name and fame, with Dulal Malakar of Debottar Hasda village being nominated for a national award in the handicrafts category in 2023, though his name was later dropped.
Artisans attribute the lack of growth to insufficient promotion and marketing strategies by the government. Koren Malakar of Gauripur alleged that both state and central governments have done little to help transform this traditional folk art into a sustainable industry.
Training Without Financial Backing
After persistent requests, the Dhubri District Skill Development conducted a 25-day training workshop in Gauripur starting November 25. However, artisans question the effectiveness of such initiatives without accompanying financial support.
"With the certificates issued by skill development, many of us tried to avail bank loans but failed," Koren lamented, highlighting the gap between training and practical economic assistance.
The artisans' plight underscores the broader challenge of preserving traditional crafts in modern economies, where cultural value doesn't always translate to financial sustainability without institutional support.
