The traditional bamboo tea industry in rural Bangladesh is disappearing due to the touch of modernity. Still, despite various adversities, people in a few villages of Nesarabad Upazila have retained this centuries-old folk tradition. This fishing trap made of narrow bamboo rods, yarn and skillful weaving by rural women is not just a folk instrument – it is intertwined with the aquatic culture of the southern region, family traditions and the livelihoods of thousands of people. About 15,000 men and women from at least 18 villages in Nesarabad Upazila of Pirojpur district, including Karfa, China-Buniya, Baldia, Jalabari, Mahmudkati, Atghar-Kuriyana, Katakhali, Kanta-Buniya, Chiltala, directly and indirectly make a living by making and selling tea. After collecting bamboo, they make rods and weave tea. Then they take it to the local market by boat or trawler and sell it.
Talking to local artisans, it is learned that the main materials used to make fishing nets are muli and morol bamboo and yarn. First, the bamboo is cut and shaped as needed. The bamboo pieces are soaked in water for a few days. Then, they are dried in the sun and made into rods. The thin and flexible rods are woven with yarn in a specific design to make fishing nets.
Locally, different types of chai are made according to the type and size of fish. Each chai is sold for around 300 to 400 taka depending on the size and quality. Men usually do the work of cutting bamboo, making the rods and preparing the structure. Then, women use the rods to weave the chai with patience and skill.
Abdul Gafur Ali of Baldia said that tea making has been a tradition in the area since the time of our ancestors.
When the monsoon arrives, the water level in canals, gullies and low-lying areas increases, and the use of tea also increases. Many families depend on it for fishing and selling tea.
However, the use of modern fishing equipment, including current nets, has decreased in many areas due to the increase in the use of fishing nets. According to artisans, although the price of bamboo, yarn, and labor has increased, the price of manufactured fishing nets has not increased in proportion.
