Murdi are unique, jug-shaped bamboo fishing baskets traditionally made and used by the Gadaba Tribe of Odisha. The Gadabas are endowed with a very rich tradition of basketry and have always depended on handcrafted implements-the Murdi-in their daily subsistence practices, especially in fishing rivers and streams of the Eastern Ghats.
The Murdi is made of flat strips of bamboo with a tight and firm weave throughout its body, giving it strength and water resistance. The body has a distinctly oval-shaped rim that is specially reinforced with bamboo strips to maintain shape and withstand beautiful designs with careful hands. The neck is narrower, thus providing better control over the catch and reducing the chances of the fish escaping while one is trying to fish.A definite feature is a twisted bark rope secured tightly around the neck of the basket, which serves two purposes: it strengthens the neck area and provides a handle for easy hanging and carrying of the basket. The sides of the Murdi are flat and lend themselves to compactness, while the base is rectangular and lends stability while on the ground or in shallow water.The Murdi used during traditional fishing operations acknowledges the Gadaba practices of sustainability and profound ecological knowledge. Its design embodies aesthetics, functionality, local materials, and artisan skill honed over generations.