Some artisans hang on despite hardships
Traditional woodcarving artisans in Karnataka are struggling to sustain their livelihoods due to the rising costs and scarcity of raw materials like sandalwood. Many practitioners are forced to diversify into furniture making or interior design, while younger generations are increasingly opting for formal education and corporate jobs.
Why it matters
The decline of traditional craftsmanship highlights the economic challenges faced by heritage industries in the face of resource depletion and changing market demands.
“My children will not become artisans. They will pursue higher education and get proper jobs that can secure our social and economic status. I am the last generation of artisans in our family to carve artefacts from sandalwood and other types of wood,” said Adarsh Gudigar, a woodcarving artist from Sagara in Shivamogga.
The article presents a factual, human-interest report on the economic struggles of a specific artisan community without political framing.
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