Dhubri artisan sustains family for 25 years by crafting traditional bamboo flutes

In the quiet Matiabagh region of Gauripur in Dhubri district, the soothing melody of the flute is not just a cultural echo—it is the heartbeat of one man’s life and livelihood. 

For 25 years, local craftsman Bakhtar Ali has devoted himself to the art of flute-making, turning a traditional skill into a reliable source of income for his family.

Ali is not only a seasoned flute player but also an expert artisan who has perfected the craft over decades. His flutes, known for their fine quality and resonant sound, owe their excellence to a specific raw material: Muli bamboo (Melocanna baccifera).

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To obtain this essential bamboo, Ali travels to Phulbari in Meghalaya once or even twice each month. “I have to go to Phulbari in Meghalaya once or twice every month,” Ali explains. “It is the only way to get the right ‘murli’ bamboo needed for a good-quality flute.”

Each trip requires a significant investment, with Ali spending around ₹10,000 on Muli bamboo. Through painstaking craftsmanship, he transforms the raw material into a range of polished flutes, which he sells for ₹17,000 to ₹18,000, sustaining his family’s livelihood.

For a quarter of a century, this rhythm of travel, craftsmanship, and sales has supported his household, showcasing the enduring value of traditional arts in modern times. Bakhtar Ali’s journey stands as an inspiring example of perseverance, skill, and cultural dedication—demonstrating how heritage craftsmanship can be both meaningful and economically sustainable.