The Handi-Chala, an impressive creation by Santhal artisans, stands out among the many bamboo artifacts of everyday utility produced by Santhal laborers. As the name suggests, the Handi-Chala serves as both an indoor and propagating basket for household use, symbolizing a traditional artistic form of weaving coupled with functionality.
The Handi-Chala comprises split bamboo throughout and a circular entrance made firm by two flat strips of bamboo. These being tightly bound by further flat strands of bamboo hold it in place and make it durable, and with regular use, very strong. The strength of the rim will give the basket structural stability while being easy to handle.
Its base is conically shaped and has four projections at the corners making it easier to stand and more beautiful. The construction of the Handi-chala presents two weaving styles, the sides mats using flat splits of bamboo, with tight finish and evenness, and the bottom is very fine and flexible, made with thinner bamboo splits in intricate weaving.
It serves in the storage of either grains or vegetables or acts as an all-purpose house container hence is an encapsulation of futuristic living in indigenous wisdom. Also, its crafting is testimony to the resource-cunningness of the Santhal tribe with whom he interacts harmoniously with natural materials.