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Decorative jaapi (field hats), hand-woven gamosa, and bell-metal xorais are making frequent appearances in Assam as the election is coming closer.
About Jaapi:
- Jaapi is a conical hat. It is made of bamboo and covered with dried tokou leaves (Tokou is a palm tree found in the rainforests of Upper Assam).
- Uses:
- Jaapi is most often used in official functions in Assam to felicitate guests.
- Farmers also use jaapi in Assam. They use them to protect themselves from the harsh weather, both sun and rain while working in the fields.
About Xorai:
- Xorai is essentially a tray with a stand at the bottom with or without a cover. Every Assamese household has it.
- Uses:
- Xorai is primarily used as an offering tray during prayers. They are also used to serve tamale-paan (betel-nut) to guests.
- It is also presented along with the jaapi and gamosa while felicitating someone.
- Made of: The bulk of xorai in Assam are made in the state’s bell metal hub Sarthebari in the Bajali district.
About Gamosa:
- Gamosa is an article of significance for the people of Assam. It is generally a white rectangular piece of cloth with primarily a red border on three sides and red woven motifs on the fourth.
- Made: The most common material for making gamosa is cotton yarn. But on special occasions, they are also made from Pat silk.
- Uses: It can be used at home as a towel (uka gamosa) or in public functions (phulam/floral gamosa). This is also used to felicitate dignitaries or celebrities.
Source: Indian Express
