ASSESSMENT OF THE ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF THE TRADITIONAL BRASS AND BELL METAL CRAFTS OF BIRBHUM DISTRICT, WEST BENGAL

In ancient India, various bronze/brass objects were found in a plethora of forms, such as coins, ornaments, inscriptions, utensils, traditional and artistic artifacts, and even weapons. In Indian tradition, design and fabrication were never separated. Artists and artisans were both considered as artists. People who traditionally work with metals are called Karmakar and those who work especially with brass and bell metal are known as Pital Karmakar. An initial literature review and reconnaissance surveys have aided to identify the issues and the prospects of sustainability associated with the brass and bell metal crafts of Birbhum as follows, • Hand beaten brass-work is unique in shape and size, but the purpose of the material has transformed with rapidly with emerging technologies and changing markets • As traditional objects, brass utensils used to be part and parcel of regular life, which attests to the shift in the taste and cultural habits. • Studies suggests that rapidly emerging technologies, open market, and availability of comparatively cheaper materials (such as Aluminum, plastics, etc.) forwards a set of challenges to the traditional craftsmen to ensure sustainability. Based on the studies on the real situation of the metal crafts in Birbhum district, it can be stated that, this sector, which was once the pride of Bengal, has been suffering for long. Therefore, the present paper attempts to identify and assess the issues and opportunities associated with the brass and bell metal crafts of Birbhum district and delves into extensive fieldwork to collect information from the real situation. The methodology includes library study, interaction with craftsmen, collection of information from Govt. establishments like MSME, NGOs working with this segment, statistical interpretation of data etc. Finally, the paper forwards a systematic, in-depth study on the traditional metal crafts in Birbum that actually have enough potential to boost this sector and to uplift the rural economic scenario in the district.