Women in MP's Burhanpur Trade Hair for Income, Earn Up To Rs 3,000 Per Kg

In Madhya Pradesh’s Burhanpur district, the trade of women’s hair is rapidly gaining momentum, particularly as the festive season approaches. The value of hair has surged, now fetching prices of up to Rs 3,000 per kg, marking a significant increase from Rs 2,500 just a short while ago. This trend not only enhances local employment opportunities but also offers women a new avenue for generating income.

As Diwali draws near, demand for hair has skyrocketed, pushing prices higher by Rs 500 this month alone. Local buyer Sheikh Yunus, who actively sources hair from various neighbourhoods, reports that on an average day, he collects between 250 grams to half a kilo of hair, which he then sells in larger markets.

The dynamics of the hair trade are intriguing. Women often choose between receiving cash or household utensils in exchange for their hair. Those with less hair tend to favour the latter option. The collected hair finds its way to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, where it is transformed into a variety of products, including wigs and extensions, all of which are in high demand.

For many women in Burhanpur, selling hair has become a crucial supplementary income source. Some women save their cut hair for when local buyers arrive, while others, facing financial challenges, opt for immediate cash transactions. The choice between cash and utensils often reflects individual circumstances and needs.

Sheikh Yunus highlighted that the hair trade has evolved into an organised business, with hair being collected and dispatched in bulk to urban centres for processing. The resulting products are varied, catering to an ever-growing market for fashion items made from hair, which contributes to the rising prices.

Beyond financial benefits, this trade also promotes environmental sustainability. By reprocessing hair, waste is minimised, presenting a practical solution that allows women to boost their income from the comfort of their homes. As the hair trade continues to flourish in Burhanpur, it exemplifies a unique intersection of economic opportunity and environmental responsibility.