Tupa is a flat bamboo basket made by Binjhal tribe members, another leading native community found mainly in Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The Binjhals are known for their intimate relationship with nature and their knowledge of using forest resources for their daily sustenance. Among numerous handicrafts made by these people, the Tupa is the most functional bamboo object of cultural importance.
The Tupas are made exclusively of flat bamboo strips, showcasing the Binjhal's exquisite weaving craft. The circular opening represents the unique identity of the basket, a feature reinforced with strong bamboo splits to give added strength during use. The base is squarish with four salient corners providing a final touch to the stability of keeping the basket sitting evenly whether on level or uneven ground.
The Tupa is used mainly to carry and sift agricultural produce, with the possibility of it even storing household items for some works, and at times, it might be even used to winnow grains. The flat yet strong design provides great utility in the field and home; this is an example of round geometry and square geometry existing in equilibrium-an essential aspect of rural agrarian living.
The bamboo basket is a trophy of the Binjhal tribe's sustainable lifestyle and traditional knowledge. The tribe has been preserving the eco-friendly way of life with the usage of bamboo, made available in their surroundings, for the essentials of their daily existence through artisan skill.