Tripura artisan Debabrata Das is showcasing the GI-tagged bamboo sarinda and traditional bamboo musical instruments at Indi Haat 2026 in New Delhi, promoting the state’s rich handicraft heritage, preserving traditional craftsmanship, and exploring global recognition and international market opportunities.
A renowned bamboo and cane artisan from Tripura is drawing national attention by showcasing the state’s traditional bamboo musical instruments, including the recently GI-tagged bamboo sarinda, at the prestigious Indi Haat 2026 handicrafts and handloom exhibition in New Delhi. The exhibition, which commenced on July 10 and concludes on July 19, has brought together artisans and weavers from across India to celebrate the country’s rich cultural and traditional craftsmanship.
State award-winning artisan Debabrata Das, a resident of Sonamura village in Tripura, is representing the state at the national-level event. His participation aims to promote Tripura’s unique bamboo musical instruments while introducing visitors from across the country to the rich artistic traditions of the northeastern state.
The bamboo sarinda, recently awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, is among the key attractions at the exhibition. A traditional bowed string instrument crafted primarily from bamboo, the sarinda is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Northeast India, particularly Tripura. Played using a horsehair bow, the instrument produces soulful folk melodies that have been an integral part of the region’s musical traditions for generations.
Speaking about his participation, Debabrata Das said his primary objective is to provide Tripura’s traditional bamboo sarinda with a distinct identity in the national and global music landscape. He expressed hope that showcasing the instrument before a wider audience would create opportunities for international recognition while opening new commercial avenues in global markets.
Das also highlighted the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the traditional bamboo craft in Tripura. According to him, several initiatives are being implemented under the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, through the Handicrafts Service Centre in Agartala. These programmes are supporting artisans by enhancing their skills, encouraging innovation while preserving traditional techniques, and creating better marketing opportunities for handcrafted products.
The Indi Haat 2026 exhibition was inaugurated by Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh in the presence of senior officials from the Ministry of Textiles, including the Development Commissioners for Handicrafts and Handlooms. The event serves as a national platform for artisans to showcase diverse handicrafts and handloom products representing India’s cultural diversity.
Officials associated with the exhibition said visitors have shown considerable interest in Tripura’s traditional bamboo musical instruments, particularly the GI-tagged bamboo sarinda. Many visitors appreciated the craftsmanship, cultural significance, and uniqueness of the instrument, reflecting growing awareness of the state’s rich handicraft traditions.
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The exhibition continues to provide an important opportunity for artisans from different states to connect with buyers, cultural enthusiasts, and craft lovers while preserving India’s traditional art forms. For Tripura, the participation of Debabrata Das and the display of the GI-tagged bamboo sarinda represent another significant step towards promoting the state’s cultural heritage on a national platform and expanding its recognition in international markets.
