𝐁𝐣𝐨𝐤𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲

…𝑻𝒓𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑨𝒓𝒕 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒎 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑰𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔

By Kezang Choden

In the heart of Zhemgang Dzongkhag, the residents of Bjoka Gewog continue to uphold a centuries-old tradition of weaving bamboo and cane products, locally known as tsharzo. This art form, deeply embedded in their culture, has evolved from a simple domestic practice to a thriving source of income for the community, despite the primary reliance on agriculture.

Historically, bamboo and cane products were woven to serve domestic purposes or were exchanged in barter for other goods. However, as tourism in Bhutan grows, these items, such as baskets, mats, and traditional containers have found a new market. Tourists, seeking unique cultural artifacts, have increasingly purchased these handcrafted products as souvenirs. This shift has transformed the way that the community approaches tsharzo, turning it into a profitable economic activity that supplements agricultural income and provides a sustainable livelihood.

Pema Wangdi, the chairperson of the Tsarzo Tshogpa (the local association for bamboo and cane weavers), has highlighted the importance of this craft in sustaining the cultural and economic fabric of the community. The Tsarzo Tshogpa has facilitated the sale of handcrafted items to dzongkhags like Paro and Thimphu, providing residents with a platform to showcase their skills beyond their community.

“We are committed to working together to keep this important craft alive,” said Pema Wangdi. “Even the youth, after completing their studies, are showing a keen interest in learning these traditional skills.”

The revenue generated from these crafts is substantial, with monthly sales ranging from Nu 700,000 to Nu 800,000. This income is distributed among the 191 members of the Tsarzo Tshogpa as per established guidelines, motivating artisans to continue their work. The association also takes custom orders, ensuring that the craft remains relevant and adaptable to market demands.

Many residents have become skilled at balancing their agricultural work with the demands of crafting bamboo and cane products. Through this balance, they are able to produce intricate and highly valued items that cater to both local needs and the growing demand from tourists.

While the craft is rooted in the past, the younger generation is now breathing new life into this traditional art. Inspired by their parents and elders, many youths in Bjoka have taken up the craft, ensuring the survival of tsharzo for future generations. The revival of the craft is more than just an economic activity; it has become a means of preserving cultural identity and resilience. Community members are taking pride in their craftsmanship, which has come to represent both their heritage and their ability to adapt to changing economic conditions.

Pema Khandu, a 24-year-old resident of Bjoka, is one of the many young artisans dedicated to the preservation and development of this traditional craft. After completing his Class 12 education, Pema made the decision to learn the intricate art of bamboo and cane weaving from his parents. “It’s only been a year since I joined the tshogpa, but in this short time, I’ve learned so much about the craft. I am eager to keep improving and learning more in the future,” said Pema.

For Pema Khandu, weaving is not just a skill; it has become a source of personal independence. He explained that his earnings from crafting bamboo and cane products allow him to support himself and contribute to his family’s income. “Every effort counts toward our income. It motivates me to work harder and make the most of my skills,” he said, reflecting on the advantages of earning through hard work rather than relying on a monthly salary like government employees.

Pema Khandu also expressed pride in being able to preserve a skill that holds significant cultural value in Bhutan. The bamboo and cane products from Bjoka, ranging from baskets to bangchungs (traditional bamboo containers) are highly sought after both locally and beyond. By continuing the craft, Pema Khandu and other young artisans are ensuring that this cultural heritage not only survives but thrives, offering them a sustainable livelihood while preserving their identity.

Tshering Wangchuk, the Gup of Bjoka Gewog, has praised the growing enthusiasm among both young and old to preserve this cultural heritage. “It is heartening to see the younger generation keen on preserving the heritage that defines our community. Their involvement ensures that these traditions do not fade away,” he remarked. The local government has also played a significant role in sustaining these practices. The Gup emphasized that the gewog administration is always ready to provide support whenever needed, encouraging residents to uphold their traditions while adapting to new opportunities.

Bjoka Gewog’s success story serves as a valuable example of how traditional craftsmanship can be integrated into modern economic models. Through the collaborative efforts of the community, from the administration to individual artisans, the people of Bjoka are creating a model that balances cultural preservation with economic progress. As they continue to weave the threads of tradition, the residents of Bjoka are proving that heritage and innovation can coexist, providing both cultural enrichment and sustainable livelihoods for the next generation.