In a fast-paced world dominated by cutting-edge technology and automated machinery, there exists an artisan who continues to preserve and celebrate the beauty of traditional craftsmanship.

In a quiet corner of a small hamlet called Vengandhur, amidst the hum of technology and the rush of progress, an old man -Palani stands alone in an open field in an open place, where time seems to have paused.

From a well-worn hammer to the seasoned anvil, each tool has a story to tell, connecting the artisan to a lineage of metalwork. Here, the artisan meticulously selects sheets of metal that will become vessels.

Witness the artisan’s hands in motion as he breathes life into the metal. Describe the rhythmic dance between hammer and anvil, the precision of hand shears, and the artistry involved in shaping each vessel.

The artisan employs a time-honoured technique, creating a natural bonding agent by blending banana, black gram flour, and jaggery into a paste. Applying this mixture to the joint parts, he seals them with a unique and eco-friendly natural sealant.

In a world overshadowed by mass production and rapid technological advancements, this artisan not only survives but thrives amidst tough competition, employing his time-honoured skills and dedication to craft unique, handcrafted metal vessels that stand as a testament to the enduring allure of traditional craftsmanship in the face of modern challenges.

Shiva is an avid field explorer of history and the environment and is Project Field Researcher at FAIR.

His personal blog, https://terrainnexplorer.com/ is also a repository of fascinating stories and research.