15 Assam artisans, 3.5 years: The story behind Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana armour

New Delhi: Ranbir Kapoor’s armour in Nitesh Tiwari’s has a story of its own. While the actor was seen wearing it on screen, not many may know that it took three and a half years to make. What makes it even more special is that 15 artisans from a small village in Assam worked together to create it.

The artisans belong to Jania Banglipara village in the Barpeta district. Led by master craftsman Jaynal Abdin, the team made around 30 to 35 pieces of armour using cane and rubber. Their hard work has now brought attention to the small village and its traditional craft.

How did the armour project reach the artisans in Assam?

According to a report by The Times of India, the work reached Jaynal Abdin through Abdul Malek, who is associated with a local organisation called Gram Unnayan. Abdin was shown the designs of the armour, and after looking at them, he felt that his team could take up the project.

Soon after, members of the film’s team visited the village and discussed the designs and measurements with the artisans. The team then started working on the pieces. It was not an easy task, as the armour had to look good on screen while also being comfortable enough for to wear.

Why was cane and rubber used to make the armour?

At first, the artisans tried making the armour using only cane. However, when it was tested, it turned out to be too hard and tight. It was not comfortable to wear, so they had to find another way.

That is when Abdin suggested using rubber along with cane. The new sample worked better, and the film’s costume team approved it. The artisans then continued making the armour as per the requirements of the film.

https://www

The artisans did not know it was for Ramayana

There is another interesting part of this story. The 15 artisans were not told that they were making the armour for Ramayana. They only knew that it was for a film, and the project was kept a secret from them.

The work also came with long waiting periods. Sometimes, the artisans would not receive any update for three to six months. Then, they would suddenly get an order to make eight to ten pieces within a short time. In total, around 30 to 35 pieces of armour were made and sent from Barpeta to .

For Jaynal Abdin and his team, this project is a matter of pride. Abdin said that he had not watched the film yet but would definitely watch it now. He also shared that the achievement was not just his own but belonged to the entire village and Barpeta district.

Written By Uditi Sharma!