Traditional tinder box among the Cachari Tribe of Assam is an example of-much ingenious yet simple ways of fire-making in tribal life. This is exhibited in the Indian Museum, Kolkata; it is rectangular shaped and made from split cane, abundantly found in the bamboo forests of the region.A black-lacquered cane tinder box. The entire body of it is completely lacquered black, which makes it more durable as well as gives it a more polished, finished look. There is a loop on the cover and the bottom or side, showing that it could easily have been tied about the waist or hung from a belt to ensure it could be reached during travel and day-to-day activities. These features suggest practical design decisions made by the tribe concerning portability and everyday use.
This was used to store dry tinder like dried leaves, bark, or shavings, and was an essential survival companion in the forest. In the time before matches or lighters, such a box would allow for the safe holding of fire and coming into ignition when needed: cooking, warming, and protection.Today the cane tinder box also stands as a marker for indigenous knowledge systems; how much thought could go into making something out of natural materials-an essential functional tool of everyday life.