New ‘bamboo chhatris’ at ghats under Centre’s scheme
VARANASI: Bamboo parasols (commonly called Chhatri) which have added glory to the majestic riverfront of Kashi are on the verge of disappearance much to the dismay of their makers who have no work at hand.
But not anymore for the central government has decided to place fresh parasols at the Ganga ghats soon. A total of 60 parasols will enhance the beauty of various major ghats. Once a ubiquitous feature of ghats, the bamboo parasols are now missing. Moreover, there are only two men of a family at Ghosabad who know the art of making this signature of Kashi riverfront.
Gopal Lal Benbansi, a septuagenarian, says that Chhatri making in his family is as old as its existence on ghats. “I have grown up framing ripped bamboos for chhatri with my family. Earlier, we used to make a chhatri daily. However, for the past many years we have been getting order only once in a blue moon. It is the reason why my son moved to automobile repairing work as it a permanent source of income unlike our traditional occupation,” shares Gopal.
At present, Gopal and his nephew are trying to keep their family tradition alive. “I can do nothing except parasol making but due to constant decreasing orders, my nephew is doing other odd jobs to make both ends meet,” adds he.
Ravindra Mishra, regional tourism officer (RTO), said, “Under the central government scheme, we have received Rs 3.60 crore to provide basic facilities on the riverbanks here. Placing Chhatri tops the list. Traditional artistes of Varanasi will make the bamboo parasol.”
“There are a few other artistes in nearby districts who are involved in parasol making but their product lacks durability. Thus, we will contact the masters of parasols in Varanasi to encourage them to carry on their traditional business,” added the RTO.
According to him, the money had been handed over to the Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) and the work was likely to be completed within four months. “Other f acilities include two floating jetties at Dashaswamedh and Assi ghats, 76 dustbins of 50 litres capacity each, decentralised drinking water supply, portable changing rooms for women as well as fitting of small and large signage boards on MS sheets. We have other scheme to attract tourists to the ghats,” Mishra said.