How This IIT Grad Revived An Ancient Craft To Land A Spot In Forbes' 30 Under 30 List

In the realm of design, where tradition meets innovation, Ranjan Bordoloi stands out as a beacon of creativity and ingenuity. Hailing from the vibrant state of Assam, Bordoloi has carved a niche for himself, meriting a spot in the Forbes India 30 Under 30 list for 2018.

As the founder and creative force behind Studio Bordoloi, this young designer has not only captured the attention of the design world but also preserved a fading artisan tradition through his work.

What to know: Ranjan’s childhood, rich in Assam’s craft heritage, fueled his journey into the design world. Watching his mother weave handlooms and learning bamboo weaving from his uncle steeped his upbringing in an ethos of creation.

Pursuing his passion, Bordoloi ventured into furniture and interior design, specializing in Furniture Design at IIT Guwahati. It was here that he discovered the potential of brasswork, a skill long practised by Assamese artisans but on the brink of obscurity.

Bordoloi’s collection, ‘Pitoloi’, is a testament to his innovative approach, blending traditional brasswork with contemporary design principles. By employing ancient techniques like coal welding, he crafted pieces that are not only functional but also carry the essence of Assamese culture.

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His efforts were recognized globally when he became the only Indian to clinch two awards at the Red Dot Award: Design Concept in Singapore for his furniture designs, marking a significant milestone in his career.

However, Bordoloi’s path to success was not devoid of challenges. The nascent stage of India’s design industry, coupled with the lack of support for independent designers, meant navigating through production, marketing, and sales single-handedly. Yet, Bordoloi’s resilience and dedication to his craft have paved the way for his success.

Ranjan Bordoloi’s story is not just about individual achievement; it’s a beacon for aspiring designers and a call to preserve our cultural heritage through modern avenues. His journey from the rural landscapes of Assam to the prestigious stages of Milan’s Salone del Mobile epitomizes the power of creativity and the enduring legacy of traditional crafts in the contemporary design world.

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