KAPTAI, RANGAMATI, May 17: Blacksmiths in Kaptai Upazila of Rangamati are passing a busy time as the holy Eid-ul-Azha approaches, with artisans engaged in making knives, cleavers, daggers and other tools used for slaughtering sacrificial animals.
A visit to local workshops found the rhythmic sound of hammering iron filling the air as craftsmen shaped metal into various cutting tools, including small and large knives, da, boti, and choppers.
However, many blacksmiths said their business has declined compared to previous years.
"We are not receiving many orders this year. The business has dropped significantly, and people are no longer ordering traditional knives and cleavers like before," said artisan Swapan.
He added that along with producing new tools, they also sharpen old knives and blades brought from households. "But this year, even sharpening orders are low," he said.
Swapan further noted that many customers are now purchasing knives online. "Some complain that the quality of online-purchased tools is not good. After using them for some time, they come back to us for sharpening," he added.
Another blacksmith, Arif, said they usually wait for Eid-ul-Azha as most of their annual income comes during this short period of 10-15 days.
"A knife sharpening costs around Tk 120-130, a small knife around Tk 30, and a boti or chopper around Tk 50-70," he said, adding that business has yet to pick up this season but may increase in the coming days.
The artisans also urged government support to preserve the traditional blacksmithing industry, warning that without financial assistance, the craft could gradually disappear.
"We may not be able to sustain this profession if support is not provided," they said.
