Metal Bells

Challenges

The metal bell artisans have been sustained since the last 40 years through a business relationship with a major buyer from the US who buys these bells as Christmas merchandise.  The sector is now at a crossroads where an up gradation in techniques, product diversification and better returns are becoming a need for the artisans. The younger generation needs to see a future in order to continue their fathers’ occupations.

As the metal used in these bells is mostly waste tin, this creative industry is a good example of recycling with aesthetics and utility. A local economy for the bells still exists unlike in the other crafts as these bells are used for identifying cattle by the cattle rearing communities of the region.

However, the conditions and infrastructure for this craft often put these artisans at risk as it involves shaping sharp metals, grinding, welding and firing in rudimentary furnaces.