
Grain Measurement – In today’s fast-paced world, terms like kilograms, grams, pounds, and Newtons have become commonplace as modern technologies like digital scales are widely used to measure food, objects, and materials. However, there is a rich history behind traditional grain measurement instruments that are on the verge of extinction. A visit to a village brought to light an era when measuring grains and food items was an art in itself. It is this fading art, embedded in culture and tradition, that deserves attention today.
The measuring object in focus is known as “Paila,” a handcrafted tool once used to measure grains such as wheat and rice. The artistry and craftsmanship behind its creation have been passed down through generations. Sadly, with the introduction of modern digital and electronic scales, the demand for such traditional measuring instruments has diminished. This decline has affected the artisans who once depended on their craft for their livelihood.
The Decline of Traditional Grain Measurement Tools
Before scales and advanced electronic measurement devices became popular, people used handmade tools like the Paila to measure grains and other essentials. These tools were crafted with precision and care, showcasing the expertise of the artisans. In earlier times, people purchased small quantities of food, and each tool was custom-made for specific measurements such as 1 kilogram, half a kilogram, or smaller units like “Pav” (250 grams).
Today, this story is different. The tradition of creating and using these grain measurement tools is gradually disappearing, just like older methods of trade and barter. The artists who create these tools now face a dwindling market for their work and are forced to consider alternative forms of employment.


The Creation Process of the Paila
The creation of a Paila is a meticulous and artistic process that requires significant skill and patience. The artisans, mainly from the Malhar community of Jharkhand, have been preserving this craft for generations. Here’s an overview of the process:
Collecting and Preparing the Clay: The process begins with collecting a special type of clay, which forms the core of the Paila. This clay is prepared and shaped into the desired form, ensuring that it is pressed and molded correctly to achieve the right structure.
Smoothing the Surface: After shaping the clay, the surface is smoothed using rolls or simple tools like hands or sticks. Each surface is carefully refined to ensure that the Paila is flawless and ready for further steps.
Designing the Paila: Once the shape is complete, intricate designs are added, often featuring floral patterns that reflect the cultural heritage of the community. These designs are either carved directly onto the Paila or traced using threads.
Coating the Paila: The Paila is coated with a mixture of coal tar and other natural substances, which enhance its strength and durability. This step is vital to ensure that the tool can withstand the rigors of constant use.
Firing the Paila: After the design and structural elements are finished, the Paila is fired in a kiln. This hardens the clay, turning it into a robust tool capable of enduring weight and pressure.
Final Polishing and Metalwork: In the final stage, the Paila is polished and further refined. Depending on the type, metals like brass, copper, or aluminum may be layered onto the Paila, giving it a glossy finish and increasing its durability.
The Struggles of the Malhar Community
The Malhar community of Jharkhand has been known for its craftsmanship in creating Pailas for centuries. However, the rise of modern grain-measuring instruments has led to a significant decline in demand for their traditional craft. The artisans, who once thrived in this trade, are now facing unemployment as their skills are no longer as valued in today’s modern economy. Many of them are leaving behind their ancestral craft and seeking new means of employment.
Traditional Pailas, whether made of brass, copper, or aluminum, were highly valued. Each material gave the Paila its own distinct value and purpose. For instance, a brass Paila was considered a prized possession, used for precise measurements such as one kilogram of rice. However, as modern measuring devices have become more affordable and accessible, the market for these handcrafted tools has sharply diminished.
The Cultural Significance of the Paila
Although the Paila is now a rare sight, it still holds significant cultural importance. It represents not only a functional tool but also a connection to the past, when everyday objects were handmade with great care and skill. The intricate designs on the Pailas reflect the creativity and craftsmanship that were once integral to daily life in many rural communities.
These tools were also used as a form of economic exchange. Artisans would travel from village to village, selling their creations. The price of a Paila varied depending on the material used—brass, copper, or aluminum—and the quantity it could measure. For example, in smaller villages, a brass Paila capable of measuring one kilogram could be sold at a much higher price than its aluminum counterpart.
Preserving the Tradition of Grain Measurement
Despite the decline in demand, some artisans continue to practice this craft, hoping to keep the tradition alive. Unfortunately, without market demand or external support, the future of these artisans and their craft remains uncertain.
The Paila is more than just a tool; it is a symbol of a time when utility and artistry were intertwined. The detailed designs and skill required to make these tools represent an art form that deserves recognition and preservation. There is an urgent need to promote and preserve this craft as cultural heritage, or perhaps find ways to integrate it into modern society to ensure its survival.