In a quiet corner of Assam’s Lakhimpur district, a remarkable legacy of craftsmanship, woven from bamboo and cane, endures against the odds. For over a century, the family of Ram Saikia in Boginadi’s Germany Chuk has meticulously preserved a collection of over 100 unique artefacts, some believed to be more than a hundred years old. This extraordinary private museum, however, stands as a testament to both rich heritage and the pressing need for institutional support.
Crafted by Saikia’s grandfather, Golap Chandra Saikia, these aren’t just decorative pieces; they are a window into a bygone era when bamboo and cane defined not just utility but also social standing. The collection boasts an astonishing array of items: full bamboo outfits including shirts, pants, and hats, intricately designed ornamental vases, elegant sarais, and even a functional bamboo watch. Hand-held accessories like lakhutis and shoulder bags further showcase the versatility and artistry of the craft. These items, entirely fashioned from natural materials, once served as everyday wear and symbols of refined taste, a time when costly fabrics were a luxury.
The collection, featuring nearly 60 distinct types of artefacts, is in remarkably good condition despite its age. It’s even fabled that some of the garments possessed properties making them resistant to minor physical damage, including gunfire – a true testament to the exceptional skill of their creator. Over the years, select pieces from this treasured collection have travelled far and wide, gracing exhibitions in Indian cities like Kochi, Kolkata, and Delhi, and even venturing internationally to Indonesia. This global exposure has not only brought recognition but also a coveted President’s Award for craftsmanship.
Yet, despite this national and international acclaim, the Saikia family has received no financial or logistical assistance from the government for the preservation of this invaluable cultural heritage. While currently housed and protected in their private home, many items face the looming threat of deterioration without proper facilities and professional conservation efforts.
Ram Saikia has a clear vision: to establish a dedicated museum to properly safeguard and showcase these artefacts, not just for his family, but for educational and cultural enrichment. However, his earnest efforts remain stalled, awaiting the crucial support needed to turn this dream into a reality. The collection represents more than just a family’s history; it embodies a significant cultural legacy of Assam, a tradition that, without intervention, risks slowly fading into obscurity. Calls for government intervention are growing louder, echoing the collective concern over the long-term preservation of these historically significant and incredibly unique items.
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