Muslim artisans in Bihar’s Gaya uphold the tradition of making the Tricolour
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — In the heart of Bihar’s Gaya district, a small group of Muslim artisans has been quietly upholding a proud tradition for more than six decades. At the Khadi Gram Udyog Sanstha in Lakhibagh locality in Manpur town, these artisans have been meticulously crafting the Indian national flag from khadi fabric — a symbol of the nation’s freedom and resilience — since 1962.
As the nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day, the artisans are once again hard at work, ensuring that the Tricolour flies high across government offices and official buildings in the five districts of the Magadh Commissionerate and beyond.
The history of national flag-making in this region dates back to the early 1960s when Muhammad Zahoor Hussain, the first craftsman at Khadi Gram Udyog, began this noble task. His dedication to the craft was not just about creating a piece of cloth; it was about instilling a sense of national pride. Over the years, Zahoor Hussain passed on his skills and values to his eldest son, Muhammad Mustafa, who now leads the flag-making efforts.
Mustafa has been involved in the process for 42 years, starting when he was just 20. He learned the intricate art of cutting and sewing the national flag from his father, and he continues to honour this legacy with great pride. “It’s a matter of honour to work on something that represents the glory of our country,” Mustafa said, reflecting on the significance of his work.
Every year, the demand for khadi flags peaks around Independence Day and Republic Day. This year, the artisans at Khadi Gram Udyog have already produced over 3,000 flags, with a target of 5,000 to meet the needs of the Magadh region. In addition to flags, they have also made 5,000 Gandhi caps, which are distributed to various khadi outlets, government offices, private institutions, and shops across the five districts.
The process of making the national flag is labour-intensive, involving multiple stages from weaving and dyeing to cutting and sewing. Each artisan can produce 40 to 50 flags a day, earning around 400 to 700 rupees, depending on the size and complexity of the flags. Despite the modest earnings, the artisans consider this work a national duty rather than a mere livelihood. Mustafa emphasised that the pride in crafting the national flag far outweighs any financial gain.
The tradition of flag-making at Khadi Gram Udyog is not just a job for these artisans; it’s a familial legacy. Muhammad Mustafa has already trained his son, Muhammad Sameer, in the art, ensuring that the legacy continues for future generations. Seven Muslim artisans, including Muhammad Sagheer, Muhammad Raja, and Muhammad Sameer, are currently engaged in this work, each contributing to the production of the national symbol with a sense of deep patriotism.
Anil Kumar, the Office Secretary at Khadi Gram Udyog, expressed confidence in the artisans’ ability to meet the high demand for flags and caps this year. He noted that the artisans’ dedication and passion are evident in the quality of their work, and they consistently meet the requirements on time, ensuring that the Tricolour is available for official use across the region.
For the artisans of Gaya, the task of making the national flag is more than a craft — it’s a tribute to the sacrifices made by their forefathers for India’s freedom. As the nation gears up to celebrate another Independence Day, the work of these Muslim artisans stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication to the country, embodying the true spirit of unity and patriotism.
