Bihar. Saran district was once famous for its ornaments. The ornaments made here were sought after across the country. Today, artisans are out of work, and the craft is disappearing.
Saran district has over three thousand skilled artisans whose hands are now idle. Until recently, these artisans not only showcased their skills locally but also spread their shine across several states of the country by crafting gold ornaments from Chhapra. However, their recognition is slowly fading away. Meanwhile, the upcoming generation is showing little interest in learning the craft, further pushing it towards extinction.
Once Famous in Rajasthan, UP, MP, and Maharashtra:
Once, Bihar along with states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and others had goldsmiths who spread the glow of their craftsmanship. Today, due to the lack of basic facilities, these artisans are forgetting their skills. After the introduction of hallmarking, these artisans have struggled to find a significant market and receive proper recognition and value for their craftsmanship. About 3000 artisans in the struggling district hope that their locally made ornaments will find an expanded market, and local branding may become possible. However, the rise of showroom culture and the demand for designer jewelry have impacted their employment.
Specializing in Bangles, Bracelets, and Earrings in Chhapra:
Artisans in Chhapra, like Sanjay Prasad, Ashok Kumar, Ramesh Prasad, and Ajit Soni, mention that the Saran district is renowned for bangles, bracelets, and earrings. At one time, gold traders and large landlords from various states used to come to purchase ornaments made by artisans here. There are approximately 400 jewelry shops in Chhapra, with about 3000 artisans working in them. Even today, there is demand for the ornaments made by these artisans in various parts of UP, Jharkhand, and Bihar. However, the demand for their crafts has decreased due to the dominance of big brands, affecting their livelihoods.
Registration and Skill Development Essential for Artisans:
Sanjeet Swarnkar, Secretary of the Chhapra District Goldsmith Association, says that local artisans lack capital and are not even registered with the government. Therefore, they are unable to promote their skills. Although their ornaments sell in the market, there is no one to brand them or ensure fair pricing. Additionally, there are no adequate opportunities at the local level to develop the skills of these artisans. Proper initiatives are necessary to nurture their skills and provide suitable employment opportunities to revitalize the local market.
Lack of Learning Among the New Generation:
Artisans who have been practicing their craft for the past three to four decades reveal that the younger generation is not willing to learn this skill. Earlier, 10 to 12 youngsters used to apprentice in their shops, and after learning, they would start their own businesses elsewhere. However, there is now a shortage of apprentices. Their children are also moving away from this work, stating that there is no scope in it anymore. If the government does not take strong initiatives, the art of jewelry making by these artisans may disappear in a few years. It is essential to preserve it.
