Tichak-the winnowing fan of the Gadabas of Odisha. This is a classic specimen in ethnic craftsmanship from an agrarian society. It now joins the Indian Museum, Kolkata's collection of utilitarian objects, in bringing testament to the transformation of locally available-natural resources into vital tools for rural living.
Constructed of flat splits of bamboo in the peculiar creation of 'U' shaped frame, the tichak has its rim reinforced by two flat additional bamboo splits joined firmly with strips of bamboo skin. The corners of the form are produced at the base creating structure and balance during winnowing.
In most cases, possessed by tribal women, this instrument is used to winnow the harvested crop. The lighter portions of grains are removed from the heavier parts by tossing in air, where the wind carries them away. It is light enough to be transported and yet heavy enough to withstand weathering over the years, and handling is very easy with the pesticide or chaff.
Tichak signifies the ingenuity and excellence of the Gadaba community that also connects them with nature and the farming tradition. The embodiment of what is a common object in such a context speaks volumes of sustainable practices in lived reality and tribal knowledge systems that continue to be lived even today.