60-year-old Tshering Dorji is the only blacksmith in Dewathang Gewog in Samdrup Jongkhar today. With the gradual ageing of the lone blacksmith and no apprentices showing interest to learn the art, the art of blacksmithing is a dying profession in the region.
Tshering Dorji, who learned the art some four decades ago can still be seen forging various tools in his smithy. For him, blacksmithing is still a noble profession and a profitable business.
“I make about Nu 20,000 in a month by forging various tools. I have raised all my five children as a blacksmith. I don’t have to go anywhere to do blacksmithing which I learned from another blacksmith,” said Tshering Dorji.
Despite the easy availability of Indian-made tools in the country today, Tshering says people still prefer to buy his products over them.
“Some prefer Indian-made tools and say mine is expensive. But unlike the ones that I forge, the Indian ones do not last long,” added Tshering.
Being the only blacksmith left in the gewog, Tshering fears that the art may not last for long if younger generations do not come forward and learn the art. He is always ready to teach.
“I don’t know what will happen after I am gone. Currently, I am here and doing the job. If I die, my children will not follow my step. And youth do not show their interest in learning the art. Villagers will face problems in getting tools if the border gates remain closed for a longer time,” added Tshering worryingly.
The art of ironwork or blacksmithing known as Gar-zo in the country is believed to be introduced sometime in the late 14th century.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
