For centuries, hand fans have been a reliable tool for combating the intense summer heat, offering respite when electricity falters. Typically overlooked in favor of electric alternatives during cooler seasons, the humble hand fan has experienced a resurgence in Kendua due to the unbearable heat and prolonged power outages. Kendua, much like the rest of the country, is reeling under the impact of the relentless heatwave. With daily life disrupted by the oppressive temperatures, people are turning to traditional methods to cope, placing their trust in the simplicity of hand fans. In response to the soaring demand, mobile vendors have emerged across Kendua's bustling markets, bus terminals, and boat stations. Their vibrant displays of hand fans crafted from bamboo, cloth, and palm leaves captivate buyers, offering both relief from the heat and an opportunity to adorn their homes with colorful designs. At the Southpara intersection of the city, we talked to Rakib Ahmed, a fan seller. He bought these Hand fans from outside. He bought the fans made of cloth and thread from the Mymensingh district. He is selling these fans at College Mor, Bus Stand, and Kendua Bazaar in the city. 35 to 40 fans are being sold daily.
Meanwhile, with the increase in demand, the wholesale price of fans has also increased. Earlier, the price of each piece of hand fan made of bamboo handle was Tk9 to Tk10. Now those hand fans have to be bought wholesale at Tk15 to Tk16 per piece. These vendors lamented that fans made of plastic and ready-made fans of various designs have invaded their business. They also said that the demand for hand fans was not so much even at the beginning of summer this year.
All of a sudden the heat is high and these fans are selling more to people who come to buy clothes in the city. Meanwhile, teacher Khairul Islam said, that day by day, many hand-fan craftsmen are turning away from this profession. Once a large number of people were involved in this profession, but unable to keep pace with plastic and ready-made products, they are changing their profession.
We hope to sustain small industries made of bamboo through government or private initiatives.
ZH
