Assam, the land of lush tea gardens and the mighty Brahmaputra, is also home to one of India’s most ancient and treasured crafts — Bell Metal (Kanhai). For centuries, this remarkable metalwork tradition has been deeply woven into Assamese culture, rituals, and everyday life.
At Zipal, we are proud to bring this heritage to the digital world by connecting skilled local artisans directly with customers who value authenticity, craftsmanship, and cultural stories.
What is Bell Metal?
Bell metal is a traditional alloy primarily made from copper and tin, known for its durability, rich golden hue, and resonant sound. In Assam, bell metal items are not merely utensils or decor pieces — they are symbols of tradition, purity, and community.
From serving food to performing religious ceremonies, bell metal products have played an essential role in Assamese households for generations.
Sarthebari: The Heart of Assam’s Bell Metal Craft
The small town of Sarthebari, located in Barpeta district, is considered the epicenter of bell metal craftsmanship in Assam. For over 300 years, artisan families here have passed down their skills from one generation to the next.
Each piece — whether a xorai, bota, kahi, or bati — is handcrafted using age-old techniques. The process involves melting the alloy in traditional furnaces, hand-hammering the metal into shape, and polishing it to achieve its distinctive glow. No two pieces are ever exactly the same.
Cultural Significance of Bell Metal in Assam
Bell metal items hold a sacred place in Assamese society:
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Xorai is used to welcome guests and during religious ceremonies
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Bota is traditionally used to offer paan (betel leaves)
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Kahi and bati are used in traditional meals and rituals
These objects are often gifted during weddings, festivals like Bihu, and important life events, symbolizing respect, prosperity, and tradition.
The Artisans Behind the Craft
Behind every bell metal product is the dedication of an artisan who spends days — sometimes weeks — shaping a single piece. Despite their skill, many artisans face challenges such as limited market access, declining demand, and competition from mass-produced alternatives.
This is where Zipal steps in.
How Zipal Empowers Local Artisans
Zipal is more than just a marketplace — it is a bridge between tradition and technology.
By providing artisans with an online platform, Zipal helps:
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Preserve traditional Assamese crafts
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Ensure fair pricing and ethical sourcing
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Give artisans nationwide and global visibility
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Support sustainable livelihoods
Every bell metal product on Zipal is authentic, handcrafted, and sourced directly from local artisans of Assam.
Why Choose Authentic Bell Metal from Zipal?
When you purchase bell metal from Zipal, you are:
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Supporting local Assamese artisans
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Preserving centuries-old craftsmanship
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Owning a piece of cultural heritage
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Choosing quality over mass production
Each product carries a story — of heritage, hard work, and pride.
Keeping Tradition Alive in the Modern World
In today’s fast-paced, digital-first world, traditional crafts risk being forgotten. At Zipal, our mission is to ensure that the timeless beauty of Assam’s bell metal continues to thrive — not just in museums, but in homes across the world.
By embracing these handcrafted treasures, you become part of a movement that celebrates culture, craftsmanship, and community.
Explore authentic Bell Metal of Assam on Zipal — where tradition meets trust, and artisans meet opportunity.