Preserving Bamboo and Cane Crafts, Indigenous Traditional Knowledge Custodian, Lepcha Bongthing, Gangtok
Preserving Bamboo and Cane Crafts, Indigenous Traditional Knowledge Custodian, Lepcha Bongthing, Gangtok
Problem
- Dying bamboo and cane crafts
- Preservation of Traditional Artistry
- Lack of appeal in traditional products
- Economic Empowerment of Tribes
- Sustainability and Environmental Impact
- Market Access and Exposure
- Limited Market Access
- Technological Barriers
Solution
- Introduction of the skill enhancement programme
- Digital marketing and e-commerce
- Revival of traditional designs
- Providing market linkages
- Launch of promotion activities
- Collaboration and partnerships
- Creation of infrastructure and access to resources
Outcomes
- Improved economic condition of Lepchas
- Better incomes and preservation of traditional art forms and motifs
- Transfer of traditional craftsmanship from older artisans to younger artisans
- Cultural exchange and mutual appreciation
- Design fusion with modern aesthetics to create appealing products
- Including Lepcha art in educational curricula
Project Details
Category: Handicraft
Project: Preserving Bamboo and Cane Crafts
Organisation: Indigenous Traditional Knowledge Custodian, Lepcha Bongthing, Gangtok
Start Date:
Website: https://lepchabongthing.org
In the serene town of Gangtok, Sikkim, a guardian of Indigenous Traditional Knowledge, Tom Tshering Lepcha, stands as the Deputy Director of the Institute of Lepcha Bongthing & Language Higher Studies (ILBHS). Through its dedicated efforts, the institute has become a beacon for preserving and promoting the intricate artistry of Lepcha tribal crafts, particularly in cane and bamboo. This has reshaped the landscaping of cane and bamboo weaving tribal art in the region.
Problem
The journey began with a deep concern—the risk of losing traditional craftsmanship to the relentless tide of modernisation. Due to modernisation, there was the risk of losing these intricate techniques and designs. Additionally, tribal communities rely on these crafts as a primary source of income. However, limited market access, lack of infrastructure and fluctuating demand often led to financial instability resulting in the depletion of traditional handicrafts and the younger generation moving away from this. The geographic remoteness of the communities doing bamboo and cane crafts restricted the reach of Lepcha crafts to potential buyers affecting growth opportunities.
Solution
It was important to make people aware of the sustainability and environmental impact of cane and bamboo. To avoid over-exploitation of this natural resource and make it market-friendly, researchers aimed to explore sustainable harvesting methods, eco-friendly processing techniques and resource management strategies to ensure long-term availability of these materials without compromising the environment.
To ensure the transfer of knowledge from the older artisans to younger artisans, the institute organised awareness and capacity-building workshops. Sessions on the promotion of skills were also organised both at the institute as well as in the field. The participants were made aware of the competition from mass-produced, cheaper alternatives available in the market in comparison to limited production, authentic art form which have more takers. Unfortunately, the real art forms could not find appropriate market access.
For this purpose, skill enhancement programme and training were organised, technology was harnessed and e-commerce started. Cataloguing traditional patterns and motifs, creating platforms for showcasing Lapcha cane and bamboo craft were among a few activities undertaken by Tom Tshering Lepcha.
Products are being produced based on consumer preferences. But the authenticity of the produce was never compromised. This required collaborative effort and government support.
Outcomes
The efforts resulted in enhanced market access and increased demand for Lepcha cane and bamboo crafts, leading to improved economic conditions within the community. This activity generated sustainable livelihoods for artisans, enabling them to earn better incomes and improve their quality of life. Importantly, it safeguarded the cultural heritage of the Lepcha tribe and instilled a sense of community cohesion and collaboration.
Encouraging artisans to work together, share knowledge, and contribute collectively to the growth and promotion of their crafts has led to a stronger and more interconnected community.
Leveraging technology for promotion, artisans increasingly utilized digital platforms and e-commerce websites to showcase and sell their crafts, expanding their market reach beyond geographical boundaries and connecting artisans directly with global consumers.
Engaging in cultural exchanges and collaborations with artists, designers, and organizations from diverse backgrounds fostered cross-cultural learning and promoted the uniqueness of Lepcha tribal art.
Incorporating Lepcha crafts into educational curricula and workshops has raised awareness among younger generations about the cultural significance and value of these crafts, encouraging a sense of pride and interest in preserving ancestral craftsmanship.
The institute has allocated a budget of one crore rupees for the promotion and expansion of Lepcha tribal art of cane and bamboo in Sikkim over the next two years.
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