The Makers of the Angami Basket
Meet the master craftsmen of Angami baskets in Khonoma village, Nagaland
Dastkari Haat Samiti
Dastkari Haat Samiti
The craft of Naga basketry was rooted in the fabric of the local rural economy. It was never oriented to a market or external patronage. Every male member of the community picked up basketry skills from his elders. He fashioned all kinds of essential articles for the home, using local cane and bamboo. As he grew older and his other responsibilities decreased, he was able to devote more time to this pursuit. Fine basketry was thus a craft of leisure.
Angami Basket: Baskets in use (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
The khophi, a utility carrying basket, is the signature basket of the Angami Naga tribe. It is used for a variety of purposes.
Every home has multiple khophis, one for every female member.
Angami Basket: Khonoma basketry (2018-03) by Chato Khuotse, master craftsman and National Award recipientDastkari Haat Samiti
A fine khophi has more than utilitarian value. Gifted by her brother to a new bride upon her marriage, the basket is a cherished possession.
Master weavers of Khonoma
With changing lifestyles, young Naga men are increasingly moving out of the village or of traditional roles as they take up jobs in the new economy. While the young are still initiated into the craft, it is increasingly becoming the preserve of older craftsmen. Arhi-u-Miyase (on the right) is a master craftsman of basketry, and received the prestigious National Award for his skills in 1994.
Angami Basket: Basket makers of Khonoma (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
At the age of 84, he continues to make baskets. His workshop is an extension of his home.
Its walls carry photos and memories of his accomplishments and accolades.
Angami Basket: Khonoma basketry (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
Bano Miyase lives in the hamlet of Dzuleke. He makes baskets for sale.
Angami Basket: Khonoma basketry (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
Orders are mostly placed by villagers who are not able to make baskets for their families.
Angami Basket: Basket makers of Khonoma (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
Chato Kuotsu is another celebrated craftsman of Khonoma. The second National Award recipient from the village, his work is greatly sought after.
Angami Basket: Khonoma basketry (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
People come from as far as Kohima and Dimapur for his baskets. His fine baskets can take him a whole month to produce.
Angami Basket: Khonoma basketry (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
Here, master craftsman Megokho Tho-u sits completing a piece on which he has spent several days already. Like any art form, basketry is a highly personal and meditative process.
Angami Basket: Basket makers of Khonoma (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
This respect is reflected in the manner in which their families support their craft.
Angami Basket: Community life (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
In Khonoma village, older craftspeople are considered living treasures. The value and regard for the craftsmen and appreciation for their skills starts from the very beginning.
Angami Basket: Khonoma basketry (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
The craft and its makers are closely integrated in the life of the community.
Angami Basket: Khonoma basketry (2018-03)Dastkari Haat Samiti
Read more about the basketry traditions of Nagaland's Angami tribe here:
- The exquisite basketry of the Angami Nagas
- The making of the Angami Basket
Text: Aloka Hiremath
Photography: Subinoy Das
Artisans: Arhi-u-Miyase, Chato Khuotsu and Meghokho Tho-u in Khonoma, Bano Miyase in Dzuleke
Ground Facilitation: Dr Tolto Metha, Kevin Solo and Vica Rakhosili of NBDA Kohima, Aloka Hiremath
Curation: Aradhana Nagpal
