Submitted by Rashika Chauhan on
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The Khasi tribe, one of the major native communities of Meghalaya, is blessed with unique customs and traditions that are nevertheless ancient and are closely interwoven with the environment of the land. The Khasi tribe, one of Meghalaya's principal indigenous communities, is known for its rich culture and traditions dating back to ancient times, which are inextricably linked to the resources of the region. Among numerous utility and ceremonial objects they make, earthen pot occupies a place of practical importance and cultural significance. Solidly built after being made of baked clay, with great skillful handiwork, and then fired in open kilns for durability, it has a rather long neck that rises from a bulbous form, lending itself to carrying a fair amount of liquid. An important feature of this pot is the very thick rim at its caliber, which adds strength to the mouth and facilitates pouring and handling. The rounded body allows it to keep the contents cooled, fitting for holding drinking water or fermented beverage, known locally as kyat.

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This earthen pitcher is traditionally made from baked clay
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This earthen pitcher is traditionally made from baked clay
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This earthen pitcher is traditionally made from baked clay
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The Khasi tribe, one of the major native communities of Meghalaya, is blessed with unique customs and traditions that are nevertheless ancient and are closely interwoven with the environment of the land. The Khasi tribe, one of Meghalaya's principal indigenous communities, is known for its rich culture and traditions dating back to ancient times, which are inextricably linked to the resources of the region. Among numerous utility and ceremonial objects they make, earthen pot occupies a place of practical importance and cultural significance. Solidly built after being made of baked clay, with great skillful handiwork, and then fired in open kilns for durability, it has a rather long neck that rises from a bulbous form, lending itself to carrying a fair amount of liquid. An important feature of this pot is the very thick rim at its caliber, which adds strength to the mouth and facilitates pouring and handling. The rounded body allows it to keep the contents cooled, fitting for holding drinking water or fermented beverage, known locally as kyat.

Potters have traditionally worked these pitchers using local clay, and it is a woman’s work, taught from mother to daughter for generations. Used ordinarily, their ceremonial participation in certain rituals embodies the symbolic relationship of the pitchers with the earth and sustenance. The use of natural materials and traditional methods in producing the pitcher emphasizes the sustainable way of living and cultural pride of the Khasi tribe. Each earthen pitcher is not only a valuable household possession but also a sign of enduring heritage and craftsmanship of the tribe.
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