The traditional wooden adze, known locally as Tatta, is a significant Khonds Tribe tool now preserved in the Indian Museum, Kolkata. It is an important hand tool for woodwork, carving, and utility work. The adze features a rectangular iron blade with one sharp cutting edge on a heavy socket that fixes a short wooden handle inserted tightly into it.
Historically speaking, the Khonds consider adze an inheritance to their rural forest- type livelihoods. An adze cuts horizontally as opposed to an axe that cuts vertically; this makes it better for items such as wooden dishes, making the shelter, and carving into logs. The design expresses the indigenous knowledge system of the tribe epitomizing utility and durability in using simple yet competent joinery.
Beyond being a symbol of skill of the Khonds, the adze symbolized their relationship with the land, with trees, and maintenance of sustainable practices. Such tools were often handmade, handed down across generations, and thus became part of the community's cultural fabric.