Bamboo is clearly intertwined with the Assamese way of life. The lush hills of Assam are abundant with diverse species of bamboo, like Muli, Dalu, Khang and Pecha. So, it's no wonder that talented Assamese craftsmen use bamboo to make furniture, vases, baskets and even musical instruments.

Assamese farmers and fishermen have traditionally been using smart and highly functional bamboo artefacts. Usually, each crafted item has many uses. It's very common to find villagers using jhakoi (a fish trap) and khorahi (basket) in their homes. In the workshops, artisans use equally simple and functional tools to craft these items — a bill hook (dao), a knife and a jak (wooden frame).

However, not all bamboo artefacts are just tools. Assamese people fondly wear the famous jaapi, an intricate and decorative headgear to showcase their identity. Masterful craftsmen make the conical hat from strips of bamboo and palm leaves, using a mould. The jaapi is usually worn during festivals like the harvest festival. Generally, it can also protect the wearer from both torrential rains and blazing sunshine.

Villages in the Nalbari District are famous for jaapi handicrafts.

The expertly crafted jaapi remains an item of cultural relevance.

The famous filmmaker and Assamese cultural icon, Jyoti Prasad Agarwala featured the jaapi in the first Assamese-language film, Joymoti in 1935. To this date, monarchs and dignitaries visiting Assam are presented with jaapi of their own.

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