The Raita is a traditional bamboo basket made by the Gadaba Tribe of Odisha, famous for its special shape and daily use. It has a square base with four notable corners and the top is circularly opened, making it usable and highly functional. Unlike ordinary rectangular baskets, the Raita's unique reinforced rim consists of two flat strips of bamboo laid parallel to each other along the circumference of the opening of the basket. Additional strength to carry on its routine chores of transporting grains or vegetables or other sundries is not only derived from this but also from supporting the shape of the basket.
The Gadaba tribespeople, who are considered one of the oldest and still vigorous tribes of Odisha, are closely connected with nature and are famous for bamboo crafts. The Raitas are among the most given items to any Gadaba family, since they have a culture heavily reliant on agriculture and forest resources.
The Raita baskets are most commonly used everyday utensils in the household and agricultural production that best reflect an applied sense of tribal design where each structural element fulfills a purpose. The square base of the basket helps maintain balance when placed on uneven ground. A round opening provides easy access for filling or emptying.
The Raita retains socio-cultural significance. It was made during community events and has even found a place in dowry items. It shows the ingenuity, resourcefulness, and sustainable living of the Gadaba.