The Gadaba tribe is one of the oldest tribal communities in the Indian subcontinent and mainly inhabits the far-off eastern forested zones of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. These stoic people, very much in tune with nature, have evolved as self-sufficient tribes and have preserved a plethora of indigenous tools of utility and cultural identity. One such most-prized Artefact is the Dhonu, a handmade bow used for hunting and safeguarding the community.
The Dhonu was made from split bamboo, aptly chosen for its flexibility, strength, and the abundance of its growth in the Gadaba surroundings. The construction consists of two primary parts—the bow stave and the bowstring, which consist of one piece of bamboo for each. Its very minimalistic and efficient design bears witness to the tribe's ability to find a use for locally sourced materials while making every possible functional tool from it.

The bowstring attaches to the stave using twisted bark threads, firmly tied down at both ends of the stave, also known as the horns. This bark thread is strong yet elastic enough to impart the necessary tension while the bow is in use. Certain color patches are on both sides—black and brown patches—spaced regularly along the stave. These characteristics, apart from enhancing the beauty of the bow, may also, in some way, signify or symbolize some rituals connected with the Gadaba.
The Dhonu showcases the Gadaba's rich craftsmanship and deep comprehension of the forest ecosystem, standing as a conflation of practical design and artistic expression to testify to their continuous life and sustainable living.