Tripura artisan showcases GI-tagged sarinda at national handicrafts exhibition

A bamboo and cane artisan from Tripura is showcasing the state's traditional bamboo musical instruments, including the recently GI-tagged sarinda, at the national-level handicrafts and handloom exhibition 'Indi Haat 2026' in New Delhi.

Sarinda is a traditional bowed string instrument made of bamboo. It is essentially native to Northeast India, particularly celebrated in Tripura. It is played using a horsehair bow to produce soulful folk melodies.

The exhibition, which began on July 10, is scheduled to conclude on July 19 and features artisans and weavers from across the country.

State award-winning artisan Debabrata Das, a resident of Sonamura village, is representing the state at the exhibition.

Das said his participation aims to promote Tripura's traditional bamboo musical instruments and expand their recognition beyond the state.

"The objective is to give Tripura's traditional bamboo sarinda a distinct identity in the global music arena and explore its commercial potential in international markets," he said.

During the exhibition, Das also highlighted efforts being made to preserve the traditional craft in Tripura. He said initiatives are being undertaken under the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, through the Handicrafts Service Centre in Agartala.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh in the presence of senior officials of the Ministry of Textiles, including the Development Commissioners for Handicrafts and Handlooms.

Officials said visitors to the exhibition have shown interest in Tripura's traditional bamboo musical instruments, particularly the GI-tagged bamboo sarinda.

The exhibition brings together artisans from different parts of the country to showcase traditional handicrafts and handloom products. There was no official statement available from the organisers beyond the inaugural proceedings.