In an era dominated by air conditioners, air coolers and electric fans, members of the Medar community have continued to rely on traditional handmade bamboo fans and other items for their livelihood.

Throughout the city, especially in locations like the 101 Ganapathi Temple in Agrahara, Pailwan Basavaiahna Nagar in Chennagirikoppal and the Medar Block in Bannimantap, one can find community members skilfully weaving fans, baskets, small flower baskets and mats out of bamboo.

Despite modernisation, Mysuru has remained steadfast in preserving its rich heritage and culture, ensuring that bamboo-made items remain in demand, particularly bamboo soops, which are highly sought after during the Gowri-Ganesha festival.

Moreover, handmade bamboo fans are still being used by people during power cuts to provide relief from the heat. With temperatures rising in Mysuru, there is a growing demand for these bamboo fans due to their portability and effectiveness in providing cooling comfort.

Speaking to Star of Mysore, Siddu, an artisan, shared that he and his wife, Manjula, are involved in weaving various bamboo items throughout the year. Hailing from Nanjangud, they commute to Mysuru daily and set up near the 101 Ganapathi Temple. During the Gowri-Ganesha festival, their relatives join them in large numbers to help weave soops.

For the summer season, they specialise in weaving two types of fans: One with small bamboo sticks, priced at Rs. 40 each and the other with larger sticks, sold at Rs. 30 each.

Siddu mentioned that fans made with colourful bamboo sticks are available for Rs. 50 each and currently, they sell about 15 fans daily along with other bamboo items. However, he noted that sales are not substantial and they mostly see increased demand for bamboo items during wedding and festival seasons.

Siddu also highlighted that the bamboo business has been greatly affected by the dominance of plastic items in the market.

Family tradition

Pailwan Basavaiah Nagar in Chennagirikoppal, adjacent to Jayanagar, is home to approximately 40 families belonging to the Medar community, who are engaged in the bamboo business. These families weave various items using bamboo throughout the month and sell them in bulk once a month.

Members of the Medar community mentioned that they prioritise weaving fans during the summer months and soops during the Gowri-Ganesh festival. Additionally, they weave baskets, flower baskets, and fruit baskets based on seasonal demand.

They also receive requests from customers in Bengaluru and other districts for special fans to be woven for marriage events.