Doomdooma: At a time when Rongali Bihu is expected to bring festive cheer to markets and celebrate the cultural spirit of Assam, traditional dhol makers across the state are battling a deepening economic crisis.
Rising raw material costs and sluggish demand have pushed this age-old craft to the edge, leaving many artisans uncertain about their future.
For generations, making the dhol — the heartbeat of Bihu celebrations — has been a source of livelihood for families across Upper Assam, particularly in Tinsukia district. But this year, many say the trade is no longer sustainable.
“This is not just a business for us; it is our identity,” said Navjyoti Das, a young trader from Rozagarh village in Doomdooma. “But the prices of leather, wood and other materials have increased sharply. Our earnings have shrunk so much that even surviving has become difficult.”
Traditionally, the Bihu season offers the biggest opportunity for dhol makers, with sales peaking during the festive weeks. This year, however, the expected rush of buyers has failed to arrive.
“Every Bihu, we wait with hope. But the market response has been disappointing. Customers are hesitant, and sales are far below what we expected,” Das said, urging the government to step in with support for small artisans.
The distress is visible across Doomdooma and neighbouring areas, where many craftsmen speak of shrinking capital, rising debts and little access to modern marketplaces.
“We want to adapt, go digital and reach customers beyond our villages,” said another artisan. “But without investment, it is impossible. If things continue like this, many of us may have to leave this profession.”
The hardship is not only financial but deeply personal. Das, who lives in rented accommodation, says he is unable to afford proper medical treatment for his malnourished infant child — a painful reminder of the human cost behind the downturn.
Experts believe immediate intervention is needed through financial aid, subsidies on raw materials and doorstep digital market access to protect the craft and its makers.
For Assam, the struggle of its dhol artisans is more than an economic issue. It is about safeguarding the rhythm, heritage and soul of Rongali Bihu itself.