Assam’s handicrafts are deeply intertwined with its cultural identity, and the state’s artisans produce a variety of crafts that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Here’s a more detailed look at Assam's rich handicraft traditions:
Silk Weaving (Muga, Eri, Pat Silks): Assam is the home of the golden Muga silk, unique to the region. Muga silk, known for its durability and golden sheen, is often used to make traditional garments like mekhela chador and sarees. Eri silk, also known as Ahimsa silk, is a non-violent silk-making process that produces warm, soft fabric used in shawls, blankets, and stoles. Pat silk is glossy and light, often used in making festive attire.
Cane and Bamboo Crafts: Assam’s lush bamboo forests provide the raw materials for intricate bamboo and cane work. Artisans create furniture, baskets, mats, fans, and decorative items. Cane furniture is highly popular due to its durability and lightweight properties. Bamboo and cane are also used to craft musical instruments, household items, and fishing equipment.
Bell Metal Craft: The town of Sarthebari is famous for its bell metal craft, one of Assam’s oldest and most refined traditions. Using a mixture of copper and tin, artisans craft traditional utensils like sarai (a platter used for religious purposes), water pots, bowls, and other items. These products are not only durable but carry significant cultural importance in Assamese households.
Pottery and Terracotta: Assam has a long history of pottery, with artisans still using age-old methods to create earthenware. Unlike modern pottery, the tools are minimal, and the items are shaped by hand. Terracotta figures, especially of gods, animals, and birds, are popular and widely used for decoration and religious ceremonies.
Wood Craft: Assam’s artisans are skilled woodworkers, crafting beautifully carved wooden items such as stools, toys, and home décor. The wooden rhinos, birds, and deities are especially famous. Assamese wooden boats are also intricately designed and built.
Jewelry Making: Assamese traditional jewelry stands out for its unique style. Items like gaamkharu (bracelets), dholbiri (earrings), junbiri, doogdoogi, and lokaparo are crafted using techniques passed down for generations. These pieces are often adorned with vibrant enameling in colors like red, green, and white.
Japi (Traditional Assamese Hat): Worn as a symbol of honor in cultural events, the japi is a conical hat made from bamboo and palm leaves. It is often beautifully decorated with floral patterns and bright colors. Initially, it was used by farmers as a shield from the sun but has now become a cultural symbol of Assam.
Masks: Masks are an essential part of Assam’s cultural performances, especially in the Bhaona (traditional Assamese theatre). Made from bamboo, cloth, and clay, these masks depict gods, demons, and mythological characters. The artisans from Majuli, the river island, are renowned for their mask-making skills.
Brass Craft: Brass utensils and decorative items are made in Assam using traditional techniques. Items like lamps, trays, bowls, and small religious idols are popular brass products.
Toy Making: Assam has a long tradition of toy making, particularly in clay and wood. These toys are often shaped into animals, birds, and characters from folk tales and are still crafted in rural areas, keeping the age-old traditions alive.
These handicrafts not only showcase the artistic talent of Assam’s people but also preserve the region’s cultural heritage.