Description |
Sakha, conch bangle, has religious significance in the everyday life of the Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, sacred conch symbolizes the purity and chastity of women, and loyalty to their husbands. Godess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva, had worn the very first pair of conch bangles, crafted by Viswakarma. Thereafter, Sakha have become the emblem of married Bangali Hindu woman. A pair of conch bangles is an essential adornment for all married woman as it brings fame and prosperity to one’s husband in everyday life.
This age-old intangible cultural heritage of Bangladesh is on the verge of extinction today because of multifarious reasons relating to the life and livelihoods of the Sakha craftsmen. This visual narrative explores their struggle of everyday life and challenges they are facing under rapidly transforming social realities of Bangladesh.
The Sakha is a handcrafted work of art having a rich history and heritage since unknown time. This beautiful and delicate artwork is done by the Sakhaartisans, the Sakharis. The Sakharis came to Dhaka during the 17th century, while the Mughals, impressed by their craftsmanship, allotted an entire area to these artisans now known as Sakhari Bazar, a neighbourhood in Old Dhaka city. |