Traditional Cloth Cleaning Service Rare in Villages, Say Locals

Bihar: In rural parts of Bihar, traditional cloth cleaning services, which were once common, are now becoming hard to find. Residents report that in most villages, it is increasingly difficult to locate people who provide this service, especially before the rainy season when it’s most needed.

Locals from one such village explained, “It’s very rare to find anyone who offers cloth cleaning here. Hardly anyone does it these days, and those who do, keep it as a hobby rather than a profession. It gets even tougher when people expect this service just before the monsoon. You need to have your clothes cleaned before the rain, otherwise they won’t get properly washed.”

Some villagers instead have taken to making fresh curd from their own milk, a tradition that remains alive. “We use around seven kilos of milk to set about two kilos of curd. This curd is thicker, similar to what others might call ‘gotha paratha’ curd,” said a woman from a local Yadav family. The family demonstrated how their curd gradually turns red over a coal fire—a technique passed down through generations.

Discussing their lives, one family shared, “We have two sons, and our house was built long ago, around the time of our marriage.” Despite limited support during hard times, the villagers maintain their spirit and hope for better opportunities in the future. “No one really comes forward in bad times, but it’s important to keep your courage strong. Our house looks like this now, but it could be worse. These are the realities of village life,” revealed a resident.

Community members encourage one another, wishing success as some prepare to leave for jobs across Bihar. “Give your blessings so we can work throughout Bihar, not just in our own village. It’s time to become self-reliant,” said a young villager, highlighting the need for broader opportunities and support.

As the conversation came to a close, villagers, following tradition, invited the guest to share a meal—an offer that was politely declined for another time, but with the promise of a return visit.