Flashy jute

Photos: Kongkon Karmaker

Decoration pieces made of jute were a hit among visitors at the Tatthya Mela held in Dinajpur recently. It would be much help if the sector got partners with financial support and distributors in the region to promote the merchandise

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Minimal décor, an array of colours and various shades of the golden fibre -- all define an exclusive shop for jute-made toys. Dolls, bags and birds with nests were a must for showpiece lovers to see at the daylong “Tatthya Mela” held in Dinajpur recently.
Organised by PalliSree, a local non-governmental organisation, the fair was inaugurated by Shaheen Anam, executive director of Manusher Janno Foundation.
At least 20 stalls participated in the fair that was held on the premises of Dinajpur Institute. The exposition drew in a large number of visitors just because it displayed attractive and useful items made from jute.
Ruma Begum, a 26-year-old woman, was the pioneer of crafting such exquisite goods of extraordinary value showcased at the fair. She is a resident of Dinajpur town.
“I am an eco-friendly person, so much so that you will not even find a single plastic good or toy at my place,” said Ruma to The Daily Star. She also uses natural materials for finally shaping her products.
Ruma, being a young woman from a local middle class family, is struggling to market her eco-friendly jute goods. She actively takes part in every fair organised in the district to promote her products, she added.
Ruma initially tried to experiment with the biodegradable agricultural products and craft to make various useful items. Her business acumen saw commercial gain in the venture too.
“If we get partners with financial support and distributors in the region to promote the merchandise, it would be much help.”
The exciting fashion range and the affordable prices persuaded her to bring this store to the fair, Ruma said. All her products are priced between Tk 20 and Tk 200.
Ruma's jute goods store has a unique blend of fashion, design and utility. Big or small, to take shopping or to a party, classy or casual -- there is something for everyone there.
“Many people might be apprehensive about carrying a jute bag to a fashionable joint, but there are many others who are ready to experiment with the choice,” said Ruma.
While leather represents class, jute, in its unique way, presents a chic and contemporary look, she added. The products are crafted by members of an in-house team under her leadership.
“You can take your pick from a variety of prints, weaves and other natural fibre blends”.
Ruma makes a wide range of clutches, shopping bags, small bags in rectangular and square shapes and sling bags. Any visitor to her stall buys at least a clutch or other fancy items, like bird nests.
The hottest selling jute bags of various shapes and style here are priced between Tk 30 and Tk 300.
Ruma aspires to popularise jute goods by making extraordinary products using the fibre.