Crafted by the Binjhal tribe-a group of Adivasis scattered over parts of Odisha and Chhattisgarh-the Pakhari is a traditional winnowing fan. The Binjhal have a deep connection to the natural world and they are self-sufficient. Practical and sustainable tools have been made by them from local resources. Among these tools, the winnowing fan holds a place of pride.
The traditional winnowing fan is made out of flat bamboo strips by an expert hand, representing the bamboo-weaving tradition of the Binjhal tribe. The winnowing fan is thus designed for the efficient cleaning of grain. One of its faces is flat to enable easy handling, whereas the other surface has two sharp edges that form an airflow direction and grain retention during winnowing.
To further enhance the strength and shape of the rim, two additional bamboo strips have been reinforced along the rim edge, with ten flat bamboo straps tightly binding the entire rim, ensuring maximum strength and durability under repeated use during grain processing.
It is chiefly used for separating grains from husk and dust after harvest, therefore the Pakhari is very important for agriculture among the Binjhals. It shows their insightfulness in the first place, but more importantly, their skill in fashioning efficient tools in an environmentally friendly way.
This simple but significant material culture object aptly symbolizes the sustainable and traditional way of life of the Binjhal tribe along with their rich knowledge of nature and craftsmanship.