Paikawng is an indigenous bamboo basket of the Lushai tribe of
Mizoram. It is an open basket used by the women to carry firewood and other household items. It is carried on the back with a braided strap resting on the head.
This basket is made entirely from bamboo splits. Species of bamboo, referred locally as ‘rawnal,’ ‘rawthing’ and ‘phulrua,’ are used. The particular pattern used in its weaving makes this basket strong enough to carry heavy loads. Special stress is given to the base, sides and the rim. The thickness of the bamboo strips add to its strength.
The basket has a square base with a diagonal length of 230 mm gradually increasing to a diameter of 390 mm at the top. The height measures 390 mm, which is equivalent to a local one hand-measure called ‘tawngkhat.’
