Such an instance is the impoverished Mohammad Abul Kalam who has dedicated himself to the flute for nearly three decades. He is not only a flute player but also crafts a medley of diverse flutes fashioned from bamboo.

The 45-year-old Kalam holds his audience in thrall with his instrument--despite his lack of formal education. It has been tough going for the talented flutist. Going back in time, he reminisces, " I lost my father in 1971 when I was nine years old and had to take charge of the family from then on," says Kalam.

At one stage he bought a flute from Astami fair and on the way home he came in touch with Alal Uddin, a neighbour, who had a good command of the flute. Under the guidance of Alal Uddin he learnt to play and make the instrument, and took up flute playing as his livelihood. Kalam is still devoted to his profession though the traditional musical instruments have lost some of their appeal.

To craft the flutes, he buys Tarai bamboo (a special type of bamboo) from Bipinganj Bazar in Durgapur , Netrokona. A bamboo stick costs Taka 5 out of which three flutes are made.

Now Kalam visits various places on special occasions such as Pahela Baishak, Eid Mela, Rath Mela, puja and Astami mela."I have to sell 100 pieces at a rate of Taka 300 (small size) and Taka 400 (large size). I get a very poor return which is not enough to run my family," he says.

Kalam performs at various functions often rendering Baul songs." I can easily perform with Baul artistes," said Kalam mentioning some prominent names of Baul artistes of this region such as Shaheed Miah (Kendua of Netrokona), Faruk Hossain, Jalal Uddin, Mafizul Islam and Kitab Ali.