The iconic Bobbili Veena, a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage, is poised for a revival following the Andhra Pradesh government’s decision to promote the cultivation of jackfruit trees. This initiative aims to address the timber shortage that has hindered the veena’s production. However, artisans caution that the solution may take decades to bear fruit.
“The Bobbili Veena boasts a legacy of hundreds of years, but the shortage of raw materials has left us struggling,” said Sarvasiddhi Ramakrishna, who oversees the Bobbili Veena Centre. “The government’s efforts are commendable, but it will take decades for the jackfruit trees to mature. Until then, our struggles continue.”
Challenges for the Artisans
Despite efforts to secure a steady supply of jackfruit timber under employment guarantee schemes in Srikakulam and Vizianagaram, artisans remain dependent on imports from Odisha and agency areas. Financial constraints further hinder their ability to meet growing demand, with many artisans unable to sustain their families.
The veena’s production supports around 100 artisan families and indirectly employs another 1,500 people in areas like Gollapally, Bobbili, Badangi, and Wadada. Yet, the annual turnover of ₹25 lakh is insufficient to resolve the financial challenges faced by these families.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Bobbili Veena has gained international fame, having been showcased at the G-20 conference in Delhi and praised by former US President Bill Clinton. It has captivated audiences worldwide, with its exquisite craftsmanship and melodious sound earning accolades at events like the Visakha Global Summit.
The artisans, descendants of the Bobbili Samsthanam craftsmen, continue to uphold this tradition through intricate designs featuring swans and peacocks. However, with rising costs of raw materials and limited income opportunities, many men are hesitant to pursue this ancestral craft.
The Way Forward
Artist Sarvasiddhi Shankarachari highlights the importance of jackfruit wood in crafting a veena. “Its sound quality is unmatched, but sourcing this wood has become costly and challenging. Brokers further inflate prices, making production harder for us,” he explained.
The state government’s efforts to recognize the veena’s cultural and economic significance offer hope. However, immediate solutions are necessary to support the artisans through working capital, subsidies, and access to affordable raw materials.
The Bobbili Veena’s enduring legacy is not just a testament to India’s musical heritage but also a reminder of the need to preserve such art forms and the livelihoods of those who create them
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