The photo depicts the traditional crafting process of ’talpakha’ in Bidyananda village of Mymensingh. Photo: Messenger
In Bidyananda village of Mymensingh, a surge in demand for traditional palm leaf hand fans, known as 'talpakha,' has led to significant profits for artisans due to prolonged heatwaves and power cuts. Despite the availability of plastic fans, the cooling effect and cultural significance of palm leaf fans remain unmatched.
Nestled in the Kaladah Union No. 10 of Phulbaria Upazila in Mymensingh, this village has witnessed a surge in demand for these traditional cooling devices amidst prolonged heatwaves and frequent power cuts.
The sweltering conditions have elevated the status of 'talpakha' artisans, who are now highly sought after. Consequently, these craftsmen are diligently weaving exquisite palm leaf fans, showcased in the bustling village fair, with their creations commanding admiration nationwide. Bidyananda village alone witnesses the sale of at least 3 to 4 million 'talpakha' annually.
Despite the availability of plastic alternatives in the market, they fail to match the prestige of palm leaf hand fans. The natural cooling effect of these palm leaf fans remains unparalleled, particularly during power outages, leading to a steady increase in their prices. Demand for hand fans remains steadfast throughout the summer, proving indispensable for individuals grappling with the scorching heat and drought. From young children to the elderly, from the employed to day laborers, everyone feels the exhaustion brought on by the summer heat.
Bidyananda, renowned as the 'palm fan village,' houses 500 skilled artisans dedicated to crafting palm leaf fans. A visit to the village reveals individuals of all ages engrossed in the meticulous art of making traditional 'talpakha.' In addition to their household responsibilities, many women have chosen palm leaf fan crafting as a profession. As temperatures soar, so does the workload for the residents of this 'talpakha' village, with demand for palm leaf fans multiplying manifold. The resurgence of prosperity has touched numerous families engaged in palm leaf fan production.
Female artisans narrate the process, with men responsible for collecting, washing, drying, and preparing the palm leaves. After cutting and coloring the leaves, adding bamboo sticks, and binding them together, the women lend the final shape to the fan. They boast a daily production capacity of 65 to 75 fans per woman.
Male artisans shed light on the procurement of raw materials, with palm leaves purchased at rates ranging from Tk 10 to 15 per piece. Each palm leaf yields two fans, while bamboo sticks, priced between 150 to 200 taka each, can produce hundreds of fans. The wholesale price of the fans ranges from Tk 18 to Tk 25, depending on quality, and reaches 30 to 50 taka at retail outlets. While local demand is met within the district, surplus fans are sold in neighboring regions.
Jamal Uddin, a craftsperson says, as the mercury rises, the production of palm leaf fans escalates, with artisans compelled to craft 200 to 250 fans daily. However, this increased demand also brings to light the scarcity of palm leaves, the primary material for fan-making. During winter, when palm leaf fans are not in demand, artisans face unemployment.
Jamal Uddin suggests that interest-free loans could alleviate the financial struggles of artisans during the off-season. Local wholesalers play a pivotal role, purchasing fans directly from manufacturers and distributing them across various regions, including Rajshahi, Rangpur, Bogura, Sylhet, and Dhaka. Bidyananda village alone accounts for the sale of millions of 'talpakha' annually.
Wholesalers from neighboring districts attest to the quality and market demand for fans produced in Bidyananda and surrounding areas. They express satisfaction with both sales and profits, reflecting the robust demand for palm leaf fans in the market.
Messenger/Fameema
