Traditionally, it is the domain of men to build the house and to make all necessary items. Boys are trained from an early age and the building of bamboo houses was traditionally done as community work in the village. Skills in these various crafts are appreciated. At cultural events and festival there are competitions of the various crafts and prizes are given.
Object 46928: Menon Ronghang from Bhaitalangso, brought this with him to KYF in 1994. He did not know who made it or when it was made. It is not common in form, but it has the typical Karbi birds in each corner. It is difficult to say whether this is an older tradition, as objects like this are so perishable, and certain forms can almost be forgotten, while some people try out new ideas and forms.
Object 46934: an-thong – tray. The craft workshops at the KYF have served as inspiration and helped transfer traditional knowledge. When Menon Ronghang attended the workshop in 1994, he had originally intended to carve a more 'floral' Assamese-inspired pattern, but after discussion with the older participants, he received guidance on how to make the traditional Karbi pattern.
Basketry and items of wood are a home industry for many households and brought to the markets.
Toy making is done in leisure time for the amusement of the children, objects 46945 – 46951.
