Vishnuram Handique from Assam, India is the saviour of a traditional knowledge and technique of making writing materials. This old version of paper called "Sanci Paat" is made up of the inner bark of the Agar or Aloe tree. Vishnuram accidently got some manuscripts describing how the Sanci Paat writing material is made. He was not aware of the content information until one day he decided to read the manuscripts and by chance he knew Brajaboli, the language in which the manuscript was written. Vishnuram showed interest in trying out this age old technique of making paper. He did a lot of experiments and finally succeeded in making the Sanci Paat.

The paper is linked with the Assamese cultural heritage and it was used by the monarchs for issuing sermons and diktats. These papers were also used by the saints and priests for writing down scriptures. These saints used to say that the use of Agar tree made papers are coming from time since immemorial and have great religious importance.

Process of preparing Sanci Paat

The process of making the paper first involve dipping the Agar bark in water for a day and then it is taken out for drying during night as the daylight cramps the bark edges. The bark pieces are pressed under the wooden press for 2-3 days and again the pieces are wetted and dried. The barks surface are then painted with an organic dye locally called "Hengool" and is not used for next 15 days after which the edges of the bark pieces are painted and it is done by using another organic dye called "haital". After 2-3 days the bark becomes ready for writing. First a proper shape is given to the bark layers by cutting them into a definite size. Writing on these leaves is done using pointed material and then they are rubbed so that the lines get visible.

The Paat is susceptible of cracking on the edges and so it tried at the centre. The way of preparation makes Paat resistant to insects and gives it a long life.

Recognition for the Effort

National Innovation Foundation, India (NIF) has recognised the efforts of Vishnuram in protecting this almost extinct technique of paper making and writing on it and it has awarded him with special honour in its biennial national competition for unaided green grassroots innovations and traditional knowledge.

About the Author:
Ashish Kumar is a student at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad. He likes to write articles on grassroots innovations and other related topics.