Assam's Cane Craft Shines in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana Film

In a remarkable collaboration, Assam's traditional cane craftsmanship has found its way into Nitesh Tiwari's film Ramayana. Local artisan Jainal Abedin, with over 35 years of experience, crafted costumes for the characters Ram and Lakshman, showcasing the potential of indigenous crafts. This project not only highlights Abedin's skills but also brings attention to Assam's rich cultural heritage. The film has achieved significant box office success, grossing over Rs 823 crore worldwide. This partnership illustrates how traditional craftsmanship can adapt to modern demands, opening new avenues for local artisans.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 11, 2026, 20:47 IST

Cane Craftsmanship in the Spotlight

Together, they crafted cane-based costumes and other items intended for Ram and Lakshman.

Nalbari, Nov 11: Assam has established another link with Nitesh Tiwari’s newly released film, Ramayana, through the traditional cane craftsmanship of Bangalipara in Jania.

Following the inclusion of Assamese actress Surabhi Das in the film's cast, local artisan Jainal Abedin was tasked with creating cane-based costumes and accessories for the characters Ram and Lakshman.

With nearly 35 years of experience in cane work, Abedin faced the unique challenge of crafting costumes for a significant film project.

“When they reached out to us, they presented their requirements. Initially, we expressed our uncertainty about such a project, but we agreed to give it a shot. They provided us with a jacket design, and we attempted to create it. After our first piece was made, they tried it on but found the material too rigid,” Abedin explained.

His initial creation was a jacket made from bamboo cane, but the production team suggested modifications to the material.

“They mentioned a plastic material sourced from China that could be used. I agreed, and once we received it, we successfully crafted the jacket using a blend of plastic and bamboo cane,” he added.

After this successful prototype, the production team began sending various designs for additional items, which Abedin and his team diligently worked on.

“We produced approximately 30-35 items for them. The order count varied; sometimes they requested five items in a day, and other times just one, often with urgent timelines,” he noted.

Abedin collaborated with artisans from Alipur in West Bengal, including Nagen Biswas, Nandalal Das, Mintu Debnath, Ramen Debnath, and Shahidul Haque.

Together, they created cane-based costumes and accessories for Ram and Lakshman.

The film has also achieved remarkable success at the box office.

Recent reports indicate that Ramayana: Rise of a Legend has grossed Rs 440.45 crore net in India, with a total gross of Rs 526.50 crore. By Day 6, its worldwide gross collection reached Rs 823.50 crore.

For Abedin, who has worked with cane for over three decades without any government support, this project has brought him recognition beyond his local community.

The integration of Bangalipara’s traditional craftsmanship into a major film has highlighted the potential of Assam’s indigenous crafts, demonstrating how traditional skills can be adapted for modern applications.