Megalaya is an important state of the north eastern part of India. Hand weaving is much sought after vocation of the artisans here not only in cloth but also in cane. The Khasis are famous
for weaving cane mat, stools and baskets.
Their special kind cane mat called 'Tlieng',
is famous for its durability which guarantees
a good utility span of around 20-30 years.
Baskets, sleeping mats, winnowing fans,
rain shields manufactured out of plaited
bamboo and cane are mostly found in the
rural areas. Jaintia fishing traps made
of bamboo sticks are also noted for functional
beauty. The favourite women clothing of the Meghalaya
is known as Dakbanda. These garments are
well decorated with depictions of beautiful
flowers and butterflies, in various colour
combines. The Khasis have also been involved
in extracting iron ore and then manufacture
domestic knives, utensils and even guns
and other warfare weapons using it.
In some Jaintia and Garo villages, engravings
of the figures of men and animals are found
on the house walls. Near Jowai, the carvings
of a lover and his beloved are seen which
evoke acclaim even today for artistry and
ingenuity in designing. The cane bridges hanging over quick-flowing
streams also testify to the superb craftsmanship
of the Khasis and Jaintias.
The non- Christian Garos erect memorials
for the dead. Those are actually statues
engraved in wooden posts, in the shape,
form and facial resemblance of the deceased.
The original house-types are found in some
of the interior villages. |