Skilled Laha bangles artisans on declining trend

By Laxmi Chaudhary,Janakpurdham, Oct. 14: The demand for laha chura (lac bangles), deeply associated with the traditions, beauty and prosperity of Mithila, is on the rise. However, the number of artisans skilled in crafting them is steadily declining.

In the Mithila region, women traditionally wear lac bangles during festivals, religious ceremonies and cultural events. For married women in particular, these bangles are considered a symbol of good fortune. 

In the past, these bangles were crafted in almost every household of the Muslim community, but today, such family workshops have dwindled considerably.

Mohammad Zakir Miya of Janakpurdham Sub-Metropolitan City–8 comes from a family that has been making lac bangles for generations. Yet now, this traditional craft is on the verge of extinction. 

“Previously, my father, grandfather and the whole family used to make these bangles, but now everyone has stopped. Only my wife continues this tradition, while I drive a rickshaw,” Miyan explained.

He added that in earlier times, both men and women would collaborate in making the bangles. Today, however, most men have moved on to other professions, leaving only a few women to continue the craft. 

“Making lac bangles involves sitting over a coal stove and the heat and dust have made many abandon the profession,” Miyan said.

Currently, the bangles produced at his home are supplied on contract to a single local shop. Despite increasing demand, the lack of interest from the younger generation is putting this traditional skill at risk of disappearing.

Mokima Khatun, also from Janakpurdham, has been making lac bangles for 14 years. Her creations are sold in the local market, bringing her a monthly income of Rs. 15,000 to 20,000. 

She is currently the only artisan in her neighbourhood. “Earlier, most households made these bangles, but the labour is high and the income low, so people have gradually given up,” she said. 

Khatun continues the work at home both to earn a living and to preserve the tradition.

The decline in artisans has led to a reduced supply of lac bangles in local markets. Nutan Karna, a local bangle trader, revealed that in the past, he purchased bangles directly from local artisans. “Production here is now limited and costly, so we import bangles from India,” he said.

Another trader, Deepak Das, also confirmed that local production is insufficient, forcing them to bring in bangles from Indian markets.

Both local traders and artisans agree that while demand is rising, the reluctance of the younger generation to take up this craft poses a serious threat to the preservation of this traditional art. 

Despite the availability of expensive and decorative bangles in the market, women in Mithila continue to consider lac bangles indispensable in their culture.