This cane hat is a conical headgear that has a circular base and is an indigenous headgear of the Naga tribes of Nagaland. The hat is made from fine plaited cane strips, which is a majorly available material that has been beautifully used in tribal crafts throughout northeastern India. Light in weight but strong enough for ceremonial or everyday use.
The base of this hat has a decorative rim with an ornamentation of hair fringes. These fringes are made from animal hair which lends beauty and could also have sociocultural significance, signifying something to do with the social standing or accomplishments of its wearer in the community. These embellishments are not an exception but a rule when it comes to Naga headgear, each symbolically imparting its meaning to the overall artifact. Traditionally, this sort of headwear features prominently in tribal rituals, harvest festivals, and warrior dances; they faithfully portray the Naga tribe's close linkages with nature as well as their aptitude with turning every conceivable raw natural material into items of practical and ceremonial usage. The sun hat would also thus provide refuge from rain and sun, showing how the utility of Naga artifacts melds so beautifully with traditions.