The Ancient Craft of Scissors Making: Tradition and Challenges

🔥Scissor making in Mathura is an ancient craft that has been passed down for over three centuries.

💼The craft is a major source of livelihood for hundreds of craftsmen in Mathura.

🇨🇳Cheaper mass-produced scissors from China are flooding the Indian markets, posing a threat to the traditional scissor making industry.

🌡️Working conditions in the scissor making industry are extremely hazardous, with workers exposed to high temperatures, smoke, and soot.

💸Craftsmen in Mathura earn meager incomes, making it difficult for them to compete with cheaper, mass-produced scissors.

How long has the craft of scissor making been practiced in Mathura?

—The craft of scissor making has been practiced in Mathura for over three centuries.

What are the challenges faced by the scissor making industry in Mathura?

—The industry faces challenges from cheaper mass-produced scissors from China, increased costs of raw materials, and high taxes imposed by the Indian government.

Are the working conditions hazardous for the craftsmen?

—Yes, the working conditions in the scissor making industry are extremely hazardous, with workers exposed to high temperatures, smoke, and soot.

Are traditional scissors from Mathura more expensive than mass-produced ones from China?

—Yes, traditional scissors from Mathura are more expensive compared to mass-produced ones from China due to the cost of raw materials and the traditional craftsmanship involved.

Is the scissor making industry in Mathura at risk of decline?

—Yes, the industry is at risk due to competition from mass-produced scissors, increasing costs, and the challenging working conditions, which affect the livelihood of craftsmen.

00:02The video introduces the risky craft of scissor making in Mathura, where workers handle heavy vats of molten brass.

01:09Scissor making in Mathura has a rich history, dating back over three centuries.

02:30Workers in Mathura face challenges from cheaper mass-produced scissors flooding the Indian markets.

04:56The scissor making process involves forging blades, making handles, and sharpening the scissors with traditional techniques.

06:09Working conditions in the scissor making industry are hazardous, with workers exposed to high temperatures and soot.

08:32The competition from mass-produced scissors from China poses a threat to the traditional scissor making industry in Mathura.

09:41Despite the challenges, craftsmen in Mathura continue to create high-quality scissors with traditional craftsmanship.

10:50Craftsmen hope that the industry can survive and continue to be a source of livelihood for their families.