Bodo women of Tamulpur: Weaving a path to self-reliance with Bhutanese clothes

In a remarkable tale of entrepreneurship and skill, Bodo women weavers of Tamulpur have been making waves in the textile industry by producing traditional Bhutanese clothes, thereby becoming self-sufficient and contributing to the local economy.

For over a decade, these women have been silently revolutionizing the industry, with areas like Kalbari, Gerua, and Anandabazar emerging as hubs for Bhutanese textile production. The women weavers, armed with their traditional looms and modern Jacquard machines, are now exporting Bhutanese clothes to Bhutan, meeting the high demand for traditional attire like Jama, Cheetah, and Ada.

According to Neha Swargiary, a weaver from Kalbari village, producing Bhutanese clothes has proved to be more profitable than making traditional Bodo Dokhona. "I have been able to support my family by producing Bhutanese clothes," she said, echoing the sentiments of many women in the region.

From spinning their own yarn to weaving intricate designs, the Bodo women have mastered the craft, and their hard work has paid off. The weaving looms, set up at home, have become a primary source of income for many families, making these women self-reliant and inspiring others to join this noble craft.

The strong trade relationship between Tamulpur and Bhutan has opened up new avenues for the Bodo women weavers, who are now exporting their products to Bhutan in cartons. This has not only boosted the local economy but also created social employment opportunities for many women in the region.

As the Bodo women of Tamulpur continue to weave their magic, their story serves as an inspiration to women across the country, showcasing the power of determination, skill, and entrepreneurship.

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