Archive · 3 Jan 2026
75-year-old Assam artisan keeps bamboo craft alive
Bidyadhar Bora is a 75-year-old man from Assam who has been making things out of bamboo for almost 60 years.
He learned this skill from his grandfather when he was just 16 years old.
Even though he had to stop going to school because his family didn't have enough money, he became very good at making bamboo items like baskets and kitchen tools.
These items were very important in Assamese homes long ago.
Bora's work helps him support his family and shows that traditional skills are still important.
Even though he hasn't received much recognition from the government, he continues to create beautiful bamboo crafts with his steady hands.
His story reminds us that we don't have to forget old traditions as we move forward.
Bidyadhar Bora, a 75-year-old artisan, has spent nearly 60 years crafting bamboo and cane products in Assam.
He learned the traditional craft from his grandfather and continues to create essential items like baskets and kitchen tools.
Bora's work supports his family and highlights the importance of preserving traditional skills in the face of modern materials.
Despite his expertise, he has received little recognition from the government beyond an old-age pension.
His story emphasizes self-reliance, the dignity of labor, and the enduring relevance of traditional crafts in modern society.
- Who
- Bidyadhar Bora, a 75-year-old bamboo artisan from Assam
- What
- Bora continues to practice and preserve traditional bamboo and cane craft
- When
- Bora has been practicing the craft for nearly 60 years, starting at age 16
- Where
- Rupai Siding near Doomdooma, Assam, India
- Why
- To sustain his family, inspire others, and preserve Assam's cottage industry
- Name
- Bidyadhar Bora
- Age
- 75
- Location
- Rupai Siding, Doomdooma, Assam
- Years of Experience
- 60
- Primary Materials
- Bamboo and cane
- Notable Products
- Dala, chalani, kharahi, baskets, kula, jakoi, khalai, dhari
- Education
- Class IX (discontinued due to financial hardship)
- Government Support
- Old-age pension (no other acknowledgment)