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Mayurbhanj's Bamboo Weavers: How Generations Turn Tradition into Livelihood

Families in Mayurbhanj have preserved bamboo weaving as their main livelihood for generations. They create beautiful baskets and bowls using traditional techniques passed down through families. Unfortunately, middlemen and contractors prevent these skilled artisans from earning fair wages for their work. The upcoming Odisha Parab festival aims to showcase such traditional crafts and support local artisans.

Key Points: Mayurbhanj Bamboo Weavers Seek Government Support for Craft

  • Over 100 families in Baderaikali village rely on bamboo weaving as primary income
  • Craftsmen create intricate baskets, bowls and various bamboo products
  • Generational knowledge spans 3-4 generations with deep traditional expertise
  • Middlemen and contractors significantly reduce weavers' potential earnings
2 min read

Odisha: Traditional craftsmen turn bamboo weaving into a source of livelihood in Mayurbhanj

Over 100 families in Baderaikali village sustain through traditional bamboo weaving for generations, but middlemen limit their earnings despite exceptional craftsmanship.

"Over one hundred families do the bamboo weaving work here...This is their main job... They have been doing this for at least 3 to 4 generations - Viplabh Kesari Jana"

Mayurbhanj, November 18

Over one hundred families in the Baderaikali village of Khunta block, Mayurbhanj district, have used the traditional art of bamboo weaving as a source of livelihood by producing and selling a variety of bamboo products.

People in Mayurbhanj have been making products solely through the art of traditional bamboo weaving for generations. The community has gained expertise in the intricate craftsmanship of making baskets, bowls, and other bamboo products.

Viplabh Kesari Jana, a local, shared that the families have been engaged in bamboo weaving for at least 3 to 4 generations; however, they don't earn well because of the middlemen and contractors. He urged the government to extend support to the skilled craftsmen.

"Over one hundred families do the bamboo weaving work here...This is their main job... They have been doing this job for at least 3 to 4 generations and don't know anything else except this craft...They sell their products in the local markets... Sometimes, they make products for a contractor...But, in those cases, they earn little to no money while the contractor earns handsomely..." he said

"If they get the support of the government or get help through an NGO, it will really benefit them...They are very talented and skilled...Their products are very good... I request the government to kindly help these people," he added.

Meanwhile, Odisha is gearing up for the upcoming "Odisha Parab." The Department of Tourism, in association with FICCI, announced the three-day cultural fest by hosting a press conference at the Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru.

The three-day cultural and tourism extravaganza will celebrate the State's vibrant heritage, art, cuisine, and tourism offerings.

Odisha Parab 2025 will be held from 15th to 17th November 2025 at The LaLiT Ashok, Bengaluru, supported by the Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department, Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Department, ORMAS, Mission Shakti, and Adisha.

The event will bring together a vibrant showcase of Odisha's cultural and tourism landscape, from its exquisite crafts and handlooms to its traditional cuisines and world-class destinations, while strengthening the cultural and tourism linkages between Odisha and Karnataka.

Odisha Parab will be open to the public from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM each day from 15th to 17th November 2025 at The LaLiT Ashok, Bengaluru. Entry is free for all visitors.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The middlemen exploitation is a serious issue across India. Government should create direct market access for these artisans through online platforms and exhibitions. They deserve every rupee of their hard work.
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves sustainable products, I'd love to buy these bamboo items. Is there any way to purchase them online? Supporting local artisans directly would be wonderful!
A
Arjun K
While I appreciate the coverage, I wish the article had more details about the specific challenges. What kind of government support are they seeking? Training? Market linkages? Financial assistance? The story feels incomplete.
N
Nikhil C
Bamboo products are eco-friendly and durable. We should promote such sustainable crafts. Hope the Odisha Parab helps these artisans reach wider markets. Jai Odisha! 🌿
M
Meera T
Generations of skill and they still struggle? This is heartbreaking. Government schemes like PM Vishwakarma should reach such remote artisans. They are keeping our culture alive!

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