The Rabha Tribe is known for their handicrafts from bamboo, as their indigenous area mostly is composed of northeast India states, specifically Assam, Meghalaya, and West Bengal. The Rabha people use an exclamation of the conical-shaped basket, which is a useful item woven with great attention to detail for a particular purpose.
Made from the split bamboo, which is very strong, flexible, and available-all great qualities for an excellent basket-making material-the basket is conical in shape, thus making the best use of gravity as a straining device, especially while working with grains or liquids. The tight weave helps maintain the structural integrity of the basket while permitting the outflow of liquid, functioning as a valuable instrument in several chores around the house.
A strap made from coiled bamboo splits is tied to the two corners of the cone for holding. This strap is used for carrying, making the basket more portable and easy to use while straining liquids or sifting grains. In the craftsmanship and usage of this conically shaped basket, the deep knowledge of bamboo weaving possessed by the Rabha Tribe comes forth, as this knowledge has been passed down through generations. Practicalities and optimum efficiency exemplify the sustainable lifestyle of the Rabha Tribe, who use locally available materials to continue to make tools that enhance their everyday lives and cultural practices.