The Wah-Raikar, a traditional sword of the Shindoo tribe, which now lies locked away at the Indian Museum, Kolkata; this is indeed one of the finest samples of homegrown craftsmanship and the art of weaponry. Coming all the way from the hilly tribal regions of Arunachal Pradesh, the sword takes the form of not simply an implement, but an impressive cultural artifact of identity and heritage.The sword is marked over with a long iron blade having a sharp cutting edge. The tip has gradually worn down, becoming blunt, which is indicative of much use either in fighting or in ceremonies. But the most remarkable feature of this relic is its curved horn-made handle finely crafted at the lower end to resemble, perhaps, the symbol of grace, tribal insignia, or simply a peacock feather. It has somewhat at the lower end a broad base giving a strong grip and then at the top, it is elongated gives it a good compact holding combination between aesthetics and a function. The tang of the sword is firmly embedded into the handle.

Such swords were most likely in use during inter-tribal wars or for traditional rites or perhaps even as symbols of bravery and status in the midst of the community. Careful purposive detail in design is indicative, of course, of the artistic sensibilities of the tribe, and of the worth that they attach to their tools and to weapons.
The sword keeps alive aspects of the life of preliterate tribes like the Shindoo associated with war and craft, thus expanding the framework of the varied heritage of tribals in India.