Ancient tradition of making knives still survives

Tibetan knives made by Budawa in 2011. These knives go through some 12 stages of production before they are ready to be sold. Xu Yu / Xinhua

He is particularly concerned that the craft may become extinct one day because it is a knowledge that is passed on to only male members of blood relations of the original families that made the knives.

Budawa also said that people frown upon his line of work. But he worries less about it these days as his 28-year-old son, Dorje Dradul, has become proficient in the craft.

"The work is time consuming and I sometimes get bored. But I will stick to passing this tradition on, and I feel proud to be my father's successor," said Dorje Dradul.

Additionally, Budawa has been teaching knife-making techniques to other younger people. Three of his seven trainees have already taken up the job independently. Local authorities support the indigenous industry but demand has outstripped supply.

"Most of the buyers of my knives are Tibetan people from the region. But there are many outsiders and tourists who buy them as well," he said.

The knife he produces is enriched with some Tibetan traditional designs. The sheath, for instance, is decorated with engravings of the dragon, phoenix, Qomolangma (Mount Everest), and hand carved words like "Tibet" and "Lhaze Tibetan Knife".

The reason behind the exclusive Tibetan designs is fueled by his worry that the designs may be lost.