There are many cities in Odisha like Mayurganj which is known for its natural and sustainable crafts. Sabai grass or Eulaliopis binate is a biodegradable alternative to mass produced products. Sabai grass is also used as a cultural alternative. Usage of this grass is rooted in tradition. It also helps in supporting rural livelihoods. Nowadays, designers have been converting it into contemporary designs which is of value to the younger generation. In the semi hilly lands of Odisha, this grass is present in a generous quantity. It is also a very simple plant to grow since it does not require much irrigation, chemicals, fertilizers so it can be grown in an inexpensive way.
Benefits
If you have thrown away a product made of sabai grass, it will decompose naturally unlike plastic which does not decompose in a million years. It does not need very fertile land to grow; it hardly requires any minerals or water which decreases ecological stress. Since it does not require heavy manufacturing, raw materials and any synthetic materials; therefore, the carbon footprint is very low. In fact, if you grow it, it will stabilize the soil and there is hardly any erosion on stable soil.
Traditionally, this grass was used to make ropes. It was also required for creating household items like baskets, storage containers and mats which were very commonly used in tribal communities. Today the craft has become even more diverse.
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Baskets, trays and storage containers made of Sabai grass remain one of the most loved items. Lampshades and small pieces of furniture are also crafted using sabai grass and sometimes mixed with other natural items like bamboo. There are also decorative items made of this material like vase, wall hangings, baskets and jewellery holders which have peacock or elephant motifs. It is a very good thing to preserve tribal weaving patterns. These items have commendable shapes, colors and excellent finishing.
Impact on Rural Lives
Most of the people who create Sabai handicrafts are from rural families. Earlier they had to travel to different fairs and sell their items. This also required a lot of money and energy from their side. The customers brutally bargained with them and they could not sell their items for a good price. Now, with the advancement of technology, their income has improved substantially. They have access to digital markets with the click of a button. They have monetary support from self help groups. In essence, there is a woman named Maa Andharibudhi Sabai Producer Group in Mayurbhanj who leads more than two hundred women in creating Sabai Grass products. This significantly helps these women in contributing to their household incomes.
Some of these Self Help Groups are so successful that they earn lakhs of rupees in a single year. Their growth has been unbelievable. The first self help group only had eleven members, now there are groups with more than hundreds of members. These groups are also collaborating with fashion and design universities like NIFT and NID which is helping them in crafting elegant home décor and teaching them how to market via electronic commerce. This has allowed them in opening the door to foreign markets. This has also supported them in increasing the value of every item.
In conclusion, if you wish to buy a sabai grass product, please choose a product with good quality as it will be more durable. You can mix it with neutral décor such as clay items or a green plant. You should only put them where fire risk is less to avoid fire hazards. At the end of the day, these product offer rich cultural heritage as well as ecological sustainability.
Author
Shreeja Mukherjee