The sowing implement (Bahu), an indispensable tool that goes back to Rabha agricultural traditions in northeastern India. This simple tool consists of two parts; one is a flat blade with an inner working edge bent inwards, while the second is a long cylindrical handle. The lower portion of the blade fits into the handle using an iron ferrule in a secure way to avoid breakage. The lower surface of the handle is roughened so as to offer a good grip while being worked.
The Rabha tribe are people whose heritage leans heavily toward agriculture. The Rabha maintain the tradition of farming with simple implements like Bahu that are equipped specifically for efficient sowing of seeds. These tools find enough space for all preparation on soils that lead to better germination and yield of crops. Many within the Rabha community have, in fact, chosen to continue using this tool over modern machinery because of simple efficacy considered in a small estate farm.
The sowing implement is thus kept in the Indian Museum, Kolkata, being considered important in the indigenous agricultural practices. The Bahu and other such tools signify the mark of creativity and self-reliance of the Rabha, deeply tied to traditional farming.