Bamboo Lane, also known as Burud Ali, is located behind the Mahatma Phule Mandai, close to the Ganapati temple. The bamboo available for purchase is brought in from Malwal and sold in Pune, Velhe, Bhor, and the Konkan area. Bamboo sticks and items for sale are displayed on both sides of the road along Burud Ali. Each shop has its shopkeeper’s house located behind it.
Brief History
Ancestors of the Burud community have been living in Pune since the 17th century. According to a folk tale, members of this community once made a bamboo basket for the goddess Parvati to carry flowers in when she was heading for a Vat Purnima Puja; since then, they have pursued bamboo weaving as their profession. Under the Peshwa rule, every market used to have bamboo shops. But only Burud Ali survived with time.
Burud Ali flourished after the market of Mandai was founded in 1885. Most of the families living here speak both Marathi and Kannada. Every adult member of the family here is engaged in making bamboo artifacts, and they manufacture and sell everything from their home. Earlier baskets, lanterns, brooms, etc were made. But with changing times, more modern objects, like curtains, lampshades, etc. are being sold. Since bamboo is eco-friendly and a sustainable material, environmentalists are working to expand the use of bamboo objects, resulting in more people visiting Burud Ali.
The Pune district Burud Samaj (community organisation) was founded in 1988, This organisation focuses on diversifying the production of household items, paper, and fabric sourced from bamboo. It offers a platform for selling these products and educates and motivates young people to follow this career path.
The majority of these craftsmen are from Satara, Karnataka, etc. and during the 18th century they settled and established themselves in Pune. An infinite collection of cane items can be discovered, from swings and chairs to household necessities like mats, brooms, and ladders, as well as decorative items like hand-woven baskets and lanterns. They offer can curtains that can change the appearance of your living area, adding a touch of elegance. Bamboo lampshades and lanterns are available for purchase as well.
The energy at Burud Ali is consistently unmatched at all times. The artisans’ families are extremely hospitable and will proudly display their creations, as soon as you enter their temporary homes. These products are affordable, eco-friendly and beautiful.
You can also select your design and get your furniture and decor items customised at very affordable price.
If you are fond of aesthetics and beautiful home decor items then this is your go-to market.