Ranchi, Jharkhand | June | 14, 2021 :: Mahavir Mahali is a resident of the Dahu village of Ormanjhi. His family traditionally makes bamboo crafts like bamboo tulips, lamp stands, wall vases, pen stands and other artistic items. Mahavir has been associated with Jharcraft since the last ten years. Apart from improving his skill set, Jharkraft also helped them in the marketing of products. Today, with support from the government and Jharkraft, Mahavir has augmented his livelihood.
Similarly, Jhabarmal, a resident of Ranchi, makes lacquer artefacts and Deepali Banerjee makes bamboo crafts, both are associated with Jharcraft. The handicrafts made by the artisans of Jharkhand have received national recognition because of such association. The products of Jharcraft have been highly appreciated for their beauty and artistry.
* Government promoting handicrafts through Jharcraft
Through Jharcraft, the state government is engaged in promoting the state’s regional and traditional handicrafts like Lacquer products, Bamboo products, Dokra art, sohrai, kohbar, jadupatia painting, terracotta art, jute wares, leather purses, traditional instruments like Mandar, Nagada, and Dholak. Along with these, some unique things made of paper like the Chhau mask, artistic items like idols are also being promoted through Jharkraft.
* 30 Thousand handicraftsman associated with Jharcraft
Under the handicrafts ambit of Jharcraft, approximately 30 thousand families are associated. Jharcraft is helping these artisans in one way or the other. Initiatives have been taken to train these artisans and connect them with the market. Jharcraft is also working on the protection and promotion of the unique handicrafts of Jharkhand.
* Training for traditional artisans
According to the prevailing art form of the respective region, Jharcraft went to villages and provided training to the artisans. During the process, they were trained to manufacture handicraft products as per the market demand and launching of products in the market. For example, in Ranchi, training was given in making artistic textile for jute and bamboo products whereas, in Khunti, the training was centred on Lacquer, Bamboo, and Artistic Textiles. In Ramgarh, artisans were trained in Dokra Art and Artistic Textiles. The training helped artisans attain more advancement in their art forms.
