The Exquisite Art of Bamboo and Cane in Bihar
Bihar is adored for its bamboo and cane art and if looked back in time, the art had a rich history.
One can say it’s a very old form of art amalgamated with the preference of modern people. This art form received huge encouragement in the past and to date is acknowledged and cherished by people.
The abundance of bamboo and cane in the Tarai and Bhabar areas has helped the art to reach its zenith in Bihar. The artisans of Bihar very skillfully uses Japanese techniques mixed with the Indian tradition and provides a completely unique form of bamboo and cane artwork. Most of the artisans are actually the tribal people coming from the trans- Himalayan region known as Bhotiyas who are skilled artisans of bamboo and cane art.
Products of this art are mostly used for local consumption and have now found an export market thus making this work permanent and professional for the local artisans, as the work offers financial assurance.
The designs of this art vary from simple plain weaving or ribbing to painting the bamboo strips or canes with vivid colors. Numerous essential tools like bill – hook, knife, jack, pliers, pincers, hammer, and saws are required to carry out this art. One thing that is kept in mind while crafting these products would be the longevity of the bamboo and the cane. With tons of patience and hard work, the lifeless bamboos are etched and created into a piece of art.
As to why Bamboo and Cane art is so much in demand and flourishing in Bihar?
The availability of raw materials, suitable weather, numerous artisans, and agricultural land for bamboo could be the sole reason for it. People nowadays prefer using eco–friendly products and this is where our traditional artwork comes in. Moreover, with the growth of technology, the products have seen subtle changes which have flourished the art even more. At present, this art holds more market value and is the only reason as to how this art is still very much alive.
