TDS Desk:

The blanket weaving industry in Shaol village, under Nasaratpur union in Bogura’s Adamdighi upazila, is reeling under the pressure of skyrocketing raw material costs, particularly yarn.

Shaol village is known for producing a variety of woven goods such as blankets, towels, bed sheets, and lungis. At least 50,000 people in this region depend on this traditional craft for their livelihood. During the peak weaving season, from September to January, the village buzzes with the sound of spinning wheels, with men, women, and even children engaged in the craft. Despite their dedication, the industry struggles to compete with modern technologies and imported goods.

In addition to Shaol, weaving activities thrive in 25 neighbouring villages, including Dattabaria, Mangalpur, Delinja, and Pushinda. These villages uphold a rich tradition of weaving that has shaped the lives of over 10,000 families, with weaving continuing year-round.

The challenges faced by weavers are evident in Shaol’s “blanket market,” which operates from 4am to 10am during winter. Here, wholesale traders from across the country, including Dhaka, flock to purchase handmade blankets and other products. However, despite the demand, rising production costs leave weavers with little profit.

During a visit to the Shaol village, this correspondent observed a 60-year-old Mozahar Akand operating the lower part of the machine with both feet. With one hand, he pulls the lower end of the beard hanging above, while the other hand moves the yarn stick, known locally as ‘Aku,’ back and forth on the machine. He remains busy at the loom throughout the day, producing colourful blankets with intricate designs. Nearby, a housewife named Amena spins yarn on a spinning wheel, much like Mozahar.

Amena said that she can make 8 to 10 blankets a day alongside her household chores, but she sees little profit for the effort she puts in. She continues the work solely to support her livelihood.

“The price of yarn used to be Tk40 per kg, but now it ranges from Tk60 to Tk120. We sell blankets wholesale for Tk 150 to Tk 200, which barely covers our costs,” Amena said.

Another craftsman, Matin, highlighted the quality of their products, which are in demand nationwide. “Despite the high quality of our blankets, the industry is dying. Buyers prefer cheaper Chinese blankets. Without government support, we cannot sustain this craft.”

The weaving community has developed a self-sufficient ecosystem, producing sheets, blankets, spinning wheels, loom equipment, and dyes. However, the lack of financial and infrastructural support has stifled its growth.

Mofazzal Hossain, general secretary of the Shaol Hat and Market Committee, expressed that while there are numerous opportunities surrounding the Shawoil blanket industry, they are not being fully recognized. He believes that if the weavers were provided with government support, this could become a potential export hub.