Flutes crafted out of NE bamboos go global
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Guwahati: Flute makers of the city are witnessing a significant surge in demand for their handcrafted instruments as music practitioners turn to locally manufactured flutes, crediting the superior quality of northeast's indigenous bamboo varieties.
Northeast's humid subtropical climate and rich alluvial soil create the ideal growing conditions for several bamboo species, particularly the ones well suited for musical instruments. The most used variety is the Schizostachyum dulloa, known locally as 'dolu bamboo', which grows abundantly in the hilly areas of Assam and other northeastern states. This species has thin walls and narrow bore dimensions, essential for producing flutes with superior acoustics and resonance.
A flute-maker and researcher Rahul Nayak, who has been making flutes with his wife's support for over six years, said they witnessed a 50% annual growth in orders over the last five years. "Classical musicians from across the country are now seeking our flutes as northeastern bamboos have lesser nodes and unique tonal qualities," Nayak added.
Nayak said bamboos are typically harvested during winter months when moisture content is lowest, then seasoned for six to twelve months in controlled conditions.
The manufacturing process remains largely traditional, with artisans carefully selecting bamboo culms based on diameter, wall thickness and natural segmentation. Each flute requires precise measurement and drilling of finger holes, with the bore being fine-tuned through traditional fire-heating techniques.
Director in charge of the performing arts department of Gauhati University, Pranjal Saikia, said, "Over the years I have seen tremendous growth in the numbers of flautists, earlier flutes were used mostly in folk songs but pioneers like Prabhat Sarma and Dipak Sarma popularised flute as a musical instrument for classical songs across the state."
Saika, who is also a music instructor, added that because of the new National Education Policy (NEP), music as a subject is getting much recognition. Courses related to flutes will also be incorporated in the performing arts course at Gauhati University.
Most people learn how to play the flute for a short duration of time and they eventually dropout after learning basic tricks, said Kishore Bharali, a music instructor and flute-maker.
There is a significant growth in flute sales but there is a need for qualified music teachers to promote the art form, Bharali added.
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