Impact of Modernization on Bodo Folk Art

Folk art evolves with societal changes. The Bodo people, increasingly engaged in government, semi-government services, or business, are becoming less reliant on their traditional craft skills for livelihood. Many have relocated from traditional villages to suburban or urban areas, adopting modern lifestyles.

The number of traditional craftspeople, such as basket makers, is dwindling in Bodo villages, with some villages having none. The demand for traditional items is also decreasing within the villages, as villagers fulfill their needs with modern alternatives.

Traditional materials and products are being replaced by modern alternatives. For instance, plastic containers are substituting bamboo baskets, and plastic rope is replacing jute rope for various uses, including cattle rearing, pig farming, and house construction.