Handicrafts of Nagaland

It is well known that Nagas are the living examples of skilled labours and craftsman and their handiworks are famous worldwide. Although we have come across several centuries since humans have learnt to make clothes, learnt Pottery, do farming etc. But the people in Nagaland, mainly the tribes still make their things by their own. They use indigenous and natural recyclable products to manufacture items which are also durable in nature because these are abundant in the Environment they live in. In this way they produce materials without polluting the nature and the human Health. Naga tribes are so self-sufficient that they can make everything of their daily use by themselves, starting from clothes to their bed. They pass on their skills from one generation to another; even the Women participate equally in producing the materials. If you visit the villages in Nagaland, you’ll find small girls playing with small weaving toys, in this way they get trained in these skills from their tender age which helps them in their future.

By now you know how Nagas make shawls and ornaments of their own, here we’ll discuss about how they make things out of canes and bamboos, woods, clay etc. The things produced looks very beautiful and get admiration even from the other countries across the world. Since everything is produced from the Cottage industries, the things are quite expensive. As the work details are quite subtle and intense so the price really does not matter at all to the tourists visiting the place. If you want to buy these things, you ought to visit this place and buy these directly from the place where they are manufactured. These cane-craft materials can be used to decorate your home; however some of the materials among them are used by the Nagas in daily purpose.

Cane-Crafting

Cane is a material which they use to make many things like sofa, chairs, baskets, and storage materials because it is soft and easy to handle. The baskets and storage materials are made by weaving canes which looks very sophisticated and the maze-like weaving done is really very tedious process. Some of the baskets made are not dyed while some baskets are made with canes dyed in different colours. The storage materials and baskets are made in various shapes and sizes and are apt for daily uses.

Wood-crafting

Wood carvings by Naga tribes are wonderful, works like these are rarely found these days. They use simple tools to make fine carvings on the wooden materials and make vases, bowls and cups. Wood crafting once was a very important Source Of Income of the Naga people, so it is natural that they are very good in this area. These wooden crafts can be used for decoration purpose; a wooden vase in our home can bring an ethnic touch.

Weaving

We have already said about how the famous Naga shawls are weaved and it is a very important skill among all the Naga tribes. Apart from the shawls, they also weave to make handbags and jackets. For this purpose, the popular loin loom was used by the weavers, a technique in which the Naga tribes excel. As the time has passed, the fly shuttle loom however has become very popular among the weavers. The decorations or the patterns used for making the bags and the other things from one tribe to another; however each tribe draw cues from their own traditions. Earlier natural dyes were used which has been replaced by the artificial colours. Cowrie shells and beads were used to describe the economical status of the person who carried the bags, now these are added to the handlooms for the purpose of decoration only.

Naga tribes have immense capability and skills which should be nurtured so that it does not disperse with time. The government of the country must take steps to motivate such intelligent people and bring their capabilities into the limelight.

Embroidery

The beautiful embroidery of Nagaland portrays the rich artistic caliber of the local craftsmen of the north eastern state of India. The local indigenous Population-of-nagaland/”>Population of Nagaland design unique patterns on their shawls, clothes and other decorative items made up of cloth which reflects their cultural heritage. The splendid embroidery of the Angami Naga shawls of Nagaland has an internationally acclaimed status. Most of the tourists who visit the north eastern state prefer to buy the beautiful shawls as relic of the rich artistic creativity of the native population of Nagaland. Designed with colorful threads or wools, the Angami Naga shawls reflect the old glory and grandeur of the state of Nagaland.

Nagaland is a state in northeastern India with a population of over 2 million people. It is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, each with its own unique culture and traditions. One of the most important aspects of Naga culture is the art of handicrafts.

Nagaland is known for its beautiful and intricate handicrafts, which are made from a variety of materials including bamboo, cane, wood, Metal, and leather. Some of the most popular Naga handicrafts include:

Bamboo and cane work: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of weaving bamboo and cane into baskets, mats, furniture, and other objects.
Beadwork: Naga women are known for their beautiful beadwork, which is used to create jewelry, clothing, and other decorative items.
Blacksmithing: Naga blacksmiths are skilled in the art of forging iron and steel into tools, weapons, and other objects.
Caning: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of weaving cane into baskets, mats, and other objects.
Cloth weaving: Naga women are skilled in the art of weaving cloth from Cotton, silk, and other fibers.
Embroidery: Naga women are known for their beautiful embroidery, which is used to decorate clothing, blankets, and other objects.
Horn carving: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of carving horns from animals such as buffalo, cow, and deer.
Jewelry making: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of making jewelry from a variety of materials including silver, gold, and beads.
Leatherwork: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of working with leather to create shoes, bags, and other objects.
Metalwork: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of working with metal to create jewelry, weapons, and other objects.
Pottery: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of making pottery from clay.
Woodcarving: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of carving wood to create furniture, masks, and other objects.
Woodworking: Naga artisans are skilled in the art of working with wood to create furniture, tools, and other objects.

Nagaland’s handicrafts are not only beautiful, but they are also functional and practical. They are used in everyday life for everything from cooking and eating to storing and transporting goods. Naga handicrafts are also an important part of Naga culture and identity. They are passed down from generation to generation and are often used in religious ceremonies and rituals.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Naga handicrafts outside of Nagaland. This has led to an increase in the number of Naga artisans who are able to make a living from their craft. It has also led to a greater appreciation for Naga culture and identity.

If you are ever in Nagaland, be sure to take some time to explore the state’s many handicrafts. You will be amazed by the beauty, skill, and craftsmanship of these unique objects.

What are the different types of handicrafts in Nagaland?

Nagaland is a state in North East India that is known for its rich culture and heritage. The people of Nagaland are skilled in a variety of handicrafts, including weaving, woodcarving, and metalwork. Some of the most popular handicrafts from Nagaland include:

Weaving: Nagaland is home to a number of different weaving traditions, each with its own unique style. Some of the most common types of Naga weaving include shawls, blankets, and bags.
Woodcarving: Woodcarving is another important handicraft in Nagaland. Naga woodcarvers create a variety of objects, including furniture, masks, and sculptures.
Metalwork: Naga metalworkers are skilled in a variety of techniques, including silversmithing and blacksmithing. They create a variety of objects, including jewelry, weapons, and utensils.

Where can I buy handicrafts from Nagaland?

Handicrafts from Nagaland can be purchased at a number of different places, including:

Handicraft markets: There are a number of handicraft markets in Nagaland where you can buy directly from the artisans.
Online retailers: There are a number of online retailers that sell handicrafts from Nagaland.
Tourism shops: Many tourism shops in Nagaland sell handicrafts.

What are the benefits of buying handicrafts from Nagaland?

There are a number of benefits to buying handicrafts from Nagaland. First, you can be sure that you are supporting the local economy. Handicrafts are a major source of income for many people in Nagaland. Second, you are getting a unique and authentic product. Naga handicrafts are made using traditional techniques and materials. Third, you are helping to preserve Naga culture. Handicrafts are an important part of Naga culture and heritage.

What are some tips for buying handicrafts from Nagaland?

Here are a few tips for buying handicrafts from Nagaland:

Buy from reputable sources: Make sure you buy from a reputable source, such as a handicraft market or an online retailer that has a good reputation.
Ask about the materials and techniques used: Ask the seller about the materials and techniques used to make the handicraft. This will help you to appreciate the craftsmanship involved.
Bargain: It is customary to bargain in Nagaland. Don’t be afraid to haggle over the price.
Be prepared to pay a premium: Handicrafts from Nagaland are not cheap. Be prepared to pay a premium for a quality product.
Buy what you love: The most important thing is to buy something that you love. If you love the handicraft, you will be more likely to appreciate it and take care of it.

Sure, here are some MCQs about Nagaland without mentioning the topic Handicrafts of Nagaland:

Nagaland is a state in the _____ region of India.
(A) North
(B) East
(C) West
(D) South
The capital of Nagaland is _____.
(A) Kohima
(B) Dimapur
(C) Mokokchung
(D) Tuensang
The Official Language of Nagaland is _____.
(A) English
(B) Hindi
(C) Naga
(D) Assamese
The population of Nagaland is about _____.
(A) 2 million
(B) 3 million
(C) 4 million
(D) 5 million
The main religion in Nagaland is _____.
(A) Christianity
(B) Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism
(C) Islam
(D) Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism
The main crops grown in Nagaland are _____.
(A) Rice
(B) Wheat
(C) Maize
(D) Tea
The main industries in Nagaland are _____.
(A) agriculture
(B) Mining
(C) Tourism
(D) Manufacturing
The main tourist attractions in Nagaland are _____.
(A) The Naga Heritage Village
(B) The DzÃ¼ko Valley
(C) The Noklak Wildlife Sanctuary
(D) The Khonoma Village
The famous Naga dance is called _____.
(A) The Hornbill Dance
(B) The Bamboo Dance
(C) The Fire Dance
(D) The Snake Dance
The famous Naga festival is called _____.
(A) The Hornbill Festival
(B) The Moatsu Festival
(C) The Tihar Festival
(D) The Diwali Festival

I hope these MCQs were helpful!