Many Dom people in Mahottari have already given up on their only traditional skill, and have limited themselves to their other traditional occupation -- pig farming and cleaning jobs. [break]
The Dom people, who are mostly found in Mahottari, Dhanusha, Siraha and Saptari districts in the Tarai, are treated as ´untouchables´ and comprise one of the poorest communities in the country as they have been reeling under acute poverty and social discrimination since ancient times.
"Our products are artistic and durable, but plastic products have displaced them," whines Hari Sharan Dom of Jaleshowore Municipality-4. There are more than 100 Dom families in the eastern border town.
“We are economically and socially marginalized and deprived out our right of education. The worst part is that now our tradition is also at stake," lamented Hari.
Had the government taken necessary steps to conserve the traditional skill of the Dom people, they would not have faced this day, adds Hari Sharan.
Nonetheless, some Doms are determined to conserve their tradition -with or without help from the state.
"Selling bamboo products has not earned me a house but it has certainly given me satisfaction. So far the earning I make is just enough to feed my family," said Kalpi.
Kalpi, who is the head of a five-member family, makes around Rs 500 a day.
According to Kalpi, his products are in high demand, especially during the Chhat festival.
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