Local Artisans in Nalbari Prepare for Diwali with Traditional Fireworks

As Diwali approaches, the firecracker artisans of Nij Bahjani village in Nalbari district are busy crafting a variety of fireworks. With over one lakh firecrackers produced in the last two months, these local artisans aim to compete with foreign products while preserving their traditional craft. Despite challenges such as rising material costs and market competition, they remain committed to maintaining the quality and uniqueness of their fireworks. This article explores the dedication of these artisans and their efforts to keep their craft alive for future generations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 7, 2026, 10:34 IST

Nalbari's Indigenous Firecracker Artisans Gear Up for Diwali

NALBARI, Nov 7: As Diwali approaches, the skilled firecracker makers from Nij Bahjani village in Nalbari district are hard at work crafting a variety of fireworks.

These local artisans are set to provide an array of fireworks in different shapes and sizes, aiming to compete with the influx of Chinese products in the market.

Notably, at Trinayan Bhandar, situated in the northern part of Nij Bahjani village, approximately 40 artisans, led by Jayanta Talukdar, have produced over one lakh firecrackers in the last two months, ready to light up the skies for the festival.

The artisans have created a diverse selection of fireworks, including Akash Ganga, Fulzari, Kolgach, gas bombs, crackers, chocolate bombs, light trees, Mota bombs, Chereki, and pencil bombs, among others.

Despite the overwhelming presence of foreign products in the market, the locally made fireworks from Trinayan Bhandar are touted as being of superior quality, with a significantly reduced risk of fire-related accidents.

According to the firecracker unit's owners, Jayanta, Diganta, and Hemanta Talukdar, their late parents, Harakanta and Nilima Talukdar, served as their primary inspiration. Motivated by their legacy, they are committed to preserving this traditional craft and have involved others in the trade, helping sustain their livelihoods.

However, the escalating costs of essential materials pose a significant challenge to the survival of this traditional craft.

This firecracker manufacturing unit, established in 1949, is now operated by the descendants of the late Jagru Talukdar and Prasanna Talukdar.

Additionally, Aniruddha Talukdar and Anil Talukdar, also from Nij Bahjani, run their own firecracker business under the name Maa Aikon Fireworks Factory, employing around 40 artisans who rely on this traditional craft for their income.

It is important to note that the artisans of Nij Bahjani not only supply fireworks for Diwali but also for various religious festivals, pujas, weddings, and other celebrations. Many families in this region have been involved in the indigenous fireworks industry.

According to the artisans, the fierce competition from a liberalized economy has created significant challenges for locally produced fireworks. Nevertheless, they are determined to maintain the quality and unique features of this traditional craft.