Once an essential tool for writing on blackboards and slates, the use of chalk - one of the first writing materials introduced to children at the beginning of their academic journey - has declined over time.
However, in Kushtia, this traditional craft continues to thrive.
A group of women from Dahkula Bagan Para in Alampur union, Kushtia Sadar upazila, have preserved this unique art, producing handcrafted coloured chalk.
In this small village, 28 women work in a chalk factory, Junayed Chalk Factory, weaving dreams through the vibrant pieces they create.
Traditionally, chalk was only available in white and was primarily used for children's early education and in schools, colleges, and universities.
But it is now readily available in various colours.
The art of chalk production
A visit to the factory reveals a bustling production process where women artisans craft colourful chalk, not only for educational institutions but also for artistic and creative purposes.
Seven skilled female workers prepare both white and coloured chalk daily.
The process involves mixing water with chalk powder to form a thick paste, which is then poured into wooden moulds.
Each mould produces chalk within 20 minutes.
To achieve vibrant colours, special dyes are added, resulting in an array of shades, including white, pink, red, and yellow.
Once removed from the moulds, the chalk pieces are set out to dry under the sun in an open field.
Twenty-one women are engaged in this drying process, carefully arranging the pieces to ensure proper drying.
They work from 9am to 4am daily, earning an average wage of Tk150 per day.
Insights from the workers
Mahina Khatun, a local worker, shared her experience, saying: “Previously, we only made white chalk, but now we produce coloured ones as well. Children in schools prefer these vibrant chalks.”
Rozina, another artisan, mentioned that while the factory wages are modest, they significantly support her household expenses.
She appreciates the flexibility of working near her home, allowing her to manage domestic responsibilities alongside her job.
Tisna Khatun expressed her pride in the growing reach of their handcrafted chalk, saying: “Our chalk is not just limited to Kushtia; it is also distributed to different districts across the country. It feels great knowing that children are learning to write using the chalk we make.”
Tania Bulbul echoed similar sentiments, adding: “After finishing my household chores, I come to the factory at 9am and work with different colours - white, pink, yellow, or red - depending on the demand. The wages I earn here help support my family.”
Growing demand for coloured chalk
The demand for coloured chalk has been steadily increasing, with its use extending beyond local markets to schools, colleges, art institutions, and various creative industries across the country.
Artists and educators alike are embracing these vibrant colours for creative projects and teaching.
The versatility of coloured chalk has also made it a preferred choice for visual displays, advertisements, and event decorations.
As a result, the market for coloured chalk continues to expand, driving both production and innovation.
Obstacles and long-term viability
Abdul Matin, the owner of Junayed Chalk Factory, highlighted the challenges faced by the industry, saying: “The demand for chalk had significantly declined in the market long ago. When I started this factory, the market was nearly nonexistent. However, I have managed to sustain the business in a rural setting, providing part-time employment opportunities for local women.”
He further revealed that the factory generates approximately Tk50,000 in monthly sales, supplying chalk not only within Kushtia but also to neighbouring districts and upazilas.
Despite the evolution of writing materials, this small chalk factory in Kushtia stands as a testament to the perseverance of its workers, who continue to keep this traditional craft alive.
