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Meghalaya's Black Pottery: Women preserve centuries-old tradition

Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST
  • Meghalaya's black pottery plays a significant role in preserving the state's folklore and mythology.
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The black clay used for making these pots is found abundantly in the region, mostly near the riverbanks. (Unsplash) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST

The black clay used for making these pots is found abundantly in the region, mostly near the riverbanks. (Unsplash)

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The unique and attractive quality of the pots comes from their distinct natural dark hue. (Unsplash) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST

The unique and attractive quality of the pots comes from their distinct natural dark hue. (Unsplash)

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These exquisite pieces play a role in various aspects of Khasi and Jaintia life, serving purposes from daily domestic use to religious rituals and ceremonies. (Unsplash) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST

These exquisite pieces play a role in various aspects of Khasi and Jaintia life, serving purposes from daily domestic use to religious rituals and ceremonies. (Unsplash)

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The most sought-after item is the khiew ranei or kchu lyrnai, a type of black terracotta pottery specifically used for preparing popular local delicacies like pumaloi and putharo. (Unsplash) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST

The most sought-after item is the khiew ranei or kchu lyrnai, a type of black terracotta pottery specifically used for preparing popular local delicacies like pumaloi and putharo. (Unsplash)

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These pots are also environmentally friendly as they are biodegradable, crafted through a process involving pounding, mixing, molding, and shaping the clay. (Unsplash) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST

These pots are also environmentally friendly as they are biodegradable, crafted through a process involving pounding, mixing, molding, and shaping the clay. (Unsplash)

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Often, the decorative motifs on the pottery draw inspiration from traditional stories and legends. (Unsplash) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST

Often, the decorative motifs on the pottery draw inspiration from traditional stories and legends. (Unsplash)

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The skilled potters usually come from families with a rich history of working with black clay, with a significant presence of women in this craft. (File Photo/Youtube) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST

The skilled potters usually come from families with a rich history of working with black clay, with a significant presence of women in this craft. (File Photo/Youtube)

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In the state, the exact and definitive origin of clay pottery is unclear, with only a few references available. Philip Richard Thornhagh Gordon's "The Khasis" notes that this pottery is a traditional activity among the residents of Tyrshang and Larnai villages. (File Photo) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Dec 06, 2023 07:38 PM IST

In the state, the exact and definitive origin of clay pottery is unclear, with only a few references available. Philip Richard Thornhagh Gordon's "The Khasis" notes that this pottery is a traditional activity among the residents of Tyrshang and Larnai villages. (File Photo)

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