The Wooden Pipe is a masterpiece exemplifying not only tribal smoking culture and fine tribal craftsmanship but is also made by the Tangkhul Naga tribe. This pipe comprises three essential parts: A long hollow wooden pipe serving as the main structure.
A clay bowl, which is beautifully designed with elaborate carvings that reflect the artist heritage of the tribe.A detachable hollow bamboo piece, the base and tip decked around with plaited cane strips that give a more elegant look to it. This small iron plate reinforcement makes the mouthpiece more durable. The wooden pipe marries dark brown with black at the ends of the spout, which makes it very attractive.
The Tangkhul Naga tribesmen are mostly found in Manipur. Using hand-carved smoking pipes, these peoples have a long tradition; the use of these pipes is beyond utility. But, for people in their culture, it is equated with status, relaxation, and community bonding. Such activities of smoking, initially, would be caused by social gatherings, tales learned by heart, and rituals devoted to encircling.
The unique properties of the pipe lie in its organic natural materials like woods, bamboos, clay, and iron, all of which keep in mind the sustainable way the tribe has operated in its craftsmanship. This beautiful wooden pipe, now kept in the Indian Museum at Kolkata, is a representation of the riches of the Naga tribes and their age-old traditions.