In the heart of the dense forest in Karkala Taluk lies the quiet and serene Kadthala village, where the Koraga community, an indigenous group with a deep connection to their ancestral traditions, thrives. Babu and Ammi, members of this community, have carried on the age-old practice of weaving baskets from natural materials gathered from the lush forest. This unique occupation has been their way of life for the past 30 years.

Babu and Ammi embark on journeys into nearby forests, such as Shedigree kaadu, Elagola kaadu, Kakke kaadu, Maanja, and Baavali Paade, in search of the essential branches of creepers like Kusuma beelu, Narle beelu, Atti beelu, Kari beelu, and Maadri beelu. These materials are essential for their craft, and the couple walks 30-40 kilometers, sometimes even more, to collect them. In a week’s time, they can create around 20 exquisite baskets.

The demand for their baskets fluctuates with the seasons. During the rainy season, demand is lower, but from October to May, local festivals, fairs, and the harvesting season boost sales. The community’s story gained attention when an article about their traditional basket weaving was published, leading to an increase in business. Babu informed.

Their handcrafted baskets are taken to the nearby Karkala market, where each one fetches approximately 500 rupees. Prices vary depending on the style, materials, and purpose of use. While Babu and Ammi sometimes find employment with the forest department reforestation activity during monsoons, their primary livelihood remains weaving baskets. They take pride in informing that the creepers they cut regenerate within five months, thanks to their sustainable harvesting practices.

The inherent strength and flexibility of the fibrous natural materials make them ideal for basket weaving. Although their traditional occupation faced a threat when plastic baskets entered the market, it has now seen a resurgence. Local traditions and rituals still require these handmade baskets.

Babu and Ammi, along with others in their community, hope for government support, particularly in terms of marketing assistance and financial aid for tools. They dream of preserving their cultural heritage and passing down their cherished craft to future generations while sustaining the beauty of the forest they call home.

 Prashanth Ramappa is a dedicated researcher with a Master’s degree in Fisheries Resource and Management. The conservation of coastal ecosystems and the preservation of western Ghats is his passion, as well as the promotion of sustainable livelihoods.