Thomann Nataraj Jute Sitar Padded Bag

I bought this bag for my sitar, which also has a second tumba. It fits and the padding seems thick enough to securely protect the sitar while at home. However, I won't ever use this bag for long-distance travel and, I would still handle the instrument with very great care. Upon arrival the bag still had a pungent, chemical smell about it, which disappeared after a few days putting the bag outside. I honestly think the bag is slightly overpriced, but there aren't many alternatives, so I was kind of forced to buy this one. Whatever the price, I would definitely prefer a sitar hard case, would it be offered here.