Submitted by Anuj Chauhan on
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Very few animal face masks from Khampti, a tribe from Arunachal Pradesh, are unique handmade artifacts, mainly worked in bamboo with cloth coverings. The mask is very much like any other painted mask with bright colors, having big eyes, small nostrils, fanged teeth, and ears, a mouthful of information about the artistic and spiritual traditions of the Khampti. The mask measures about 21.5 cm in height and 28 cm in diameter across the base, and stands as a living testimonial to the bamboo craftsmanship of the Khamti people and their deep-rooted cultural beliefs.
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Mask of An Animal
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Mask of An Animal
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Bamboo Mask
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Very few animal face masks from Khampti, a tribe from Arunachal Pradesh, are unique handmade artifacts, mainly worked in bamboo with cloth coverings. The mask is very much like any other painted mask with bright colors, having big eyes, small nostrils, fanged teeth, and ears, a mouthful of information about the artistic and spiritual traditions of the Khampti. The mask measures about 21.5 cm in height and 28 cm in diameter across the base, and stands as a living testimonial to the bamboo craftsmanship of the Khamti people and their deep-rooted cultural beliefs.
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Animal face mask
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Theravada Buddhism system is followed by the Khampti tribe living mainly in the Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh. They use masks in religious programs and further in dances and theater performances. These masks can represent mythical beings, animals, or deities, which are pertinent for telling ancient stories and holding spiritual rituals. The present animal-type mask is used for ritual dances during the conduct of these religious events and festivals concerning diverse facets of nature and divine powers.

Mask-making also shows a sustainable form of trade, as most bamboo species grow widely around the area. The painted cloth covering serves to enhance visual appeal and makes the mask more effective and dramatic during a performance. Such artifacts form an important part of Khampti heritage and also characterize their artistic legacy and religious practices.
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