Doomdooma, April 18 -- At a time when Rongali Bihu is expected to bring festive cheer to markets and celebrate the cultural spirit of Assam, traditional dhol makers across the state are battling a deepening economic crisis.

Rising raw material costs and sluggish demand have pushed this age-old craft to the edge, leaving many artisans uncertain about their future.

For generations, making the dhol - the heartbeat of Bihu celebrations - has been a source of livelihood for families across Upper Assam, particularly in Tinsukia district. But this year, many say the trade is no longer sustainable.

"This is not just a business for us; it is our identity," said Navjyoti Das, a young trader from Rozagarh village in Doomdooma. "But the prices of ...