The post, elaborately carved, belongs to the Garo tribe of Meghalaya, an important indigenous community of Northeast India. This cylindrical post has three ring structures carved along its length and has bifurcated ends on one of its sides. It is the central post, which will be intended for the Nokpante, the bachelor's dormitory in traditional Garo villages. Cultural institution where young boys live unmarried is Nokpante. Aimed to provide education on various aspects of tribal life that include agriculture, hunting, craftsmanship, music, dancing, and oral history, this bachelor dormitory serves as accomodation for long students.
Just as the post is structurally oriented, it is ritual and symbolically oriented. They regard this as a representation of strength, unity, and the continuity of Garo heritage. The ring-like carvings may symbolize growth, the stages of life, or social rank, although interpretations may vary among Garo clans. Purpose of bifurcated end can be ornamentation and function as holding post or serving as a symbolic gate within the space. This post, carved from one single piece of durable wood, is a monument by the Garo Community's close affinity to nature, as well as their artistry and community living values regarding youth education. Currently housed in the Indian Museum, Kolkata, this artifact connects directly with the architectural and cultural wealth tradition of the Garo people.