Rabin Ranjan Dey

Rabin Ranjan Dey, a dedicated artisan from Calcutta, West Bengal, has devoted himself to the craft of jute, mud, and bamboo arts. Despite lacking formal training, his passion for jute craftsmanship was ignited when he witnessed the plight of jute farmers struggling to repay loans, leading him to use his skills to support them.

Over the years, Rabin's talent and dedication have earned him recognition at various levels, including three District Awards, State, and National Awards. His participation in prestigious events like the Bengal Handicrafts Mela and contributions to projects like the National Bamboo Mission highlights his commitment to his craft and community.

A highlight of Rabin's work is his exquisite jute idols of Durga Thakur, which have garnered awards and acclaim. However, he acknowledges the challenges faced by artisans in the industry, including the slow learning process and lack of support and respect.

Despite personal struggles, Rabin remains determined to uplift his fellow artisans and empower marginalized individuals, particularly women confined to their homes. His vision to provide them with simple jute craft tasks for remote work reflects his compassion and dedication to making a positive impact on their lives.

Rabin's poignant words, “Jo rupiya ka maalik hota hai vo to tutakadi, jo art ka maalik hai usko samaan nahi milta hai… Rupiya nahi chahiye humko, samaan chahiye” underscore the need for greater recognition and appreciation of artisans' contributions to society. Through his unwavering commitment to his craft and advocacy for his fellow artisans, Rabin exemplifies the transformative power of art and compassion.