A team of 15 skilled artisans from Jania Banglipara village in Assam's Barpeta district has gained significant recognition for their contribution to Bollywood's epic film, 'Ramayana'. Led by master craftsman Jaynal Abdin, these artisans spent approximately three and a half years meticulously crafting 30 to 35 pieces of specialized cane-and-rubber armour for the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer, directed by Nitesh Tiwari.
The Secret Project: From Concept to Screen
The assignment, which remained confidential throughout its duration, reached the artisans through Abdul Malek of the local organization Gram Unnayan. Initially, the team received detailed drawings and designs of the proposed armour, prompting Abdin to gather his fellow craftspeople to discuss the ambitious project.
Representatives from the film's production later visited the remote village to oversee measurements and ensure design accuracy. A dedicated team member, Sagar, even stayed with the artisans to coordinate fitting and design requirements, highlighting the intricate collaboration between traditional craftsmanship and large-scale film production.
Overcoming Design Challenges with Cane and Rubber
One of the primary challenges was to create armour that looked authentic on screen while ensuring actors could move comfortably. Early prototypes made entirely from cane proved too rigid, significantly restricting movement, especially around the neck and shoulders. The artisans experimented with rubber supplied by the production team, but weaving with rubber alone did not achieve the desired structural integrity or aesthetic.
Consulting with costume designer Ajay, Jaynal Abdin proposed an innovative solution: a hybrid design combining cane and rubber. "They sent us black and green rubber, but weaving with rubber alone was not working. When I spoke to costume designer Ajay, I suggested using half cane and half rubber," Abdin recounted. This blended approach successfully balanced structure, appearance, and crucial flexibility, earning the production team's approval for the remaining pieces.
Years of Intermittent Work and Tight Deadlines
The work on the 'Ramayana' armour was not continuous, spanning over three to three and a half years with intermittent pauses. Artisans sometimes received no updates for months, only to be met with urgent requests for eight to ten pieces on short notice when filming schedules resumed. Completed armour jackets were transported from Barpeta to Guwahati Airport, then onward to Mumbai for the film's production.
Pride and Recognition for Barpeta's Craftsmanship
The true identity of the film remained a secret to the artisans until its theatrical release on November 5. Abdin expressed immense pride upon learning their creations were for 'Ramayana', though he had yet to see the film himself. "I feel immense pride for my team, for myself, for my village Jania Banglipara, and for the entire Barpeta district," he stated.
This project has not only brought national recognition to the traditional skills of Jania Banglipara but has also underscored the vital role local craftspeople play in bringing grand cinematic visions to life.