Sikki Grass Products of Bihar
Grass Work
History
Tracing the history of Sikki grass basketry is difficult due to a lack of physical evidence. This craft remained a localized folk tradition in parts of Bihar, confined to domestic use until 1967. Sikki baskets were never intended for commercial sale, making them relatively unknown outside their regions. However, locally, they played a vital role in daily life and festive or ritual occasions.
Raw Materials and Tools
Raw material: Sikki grass
Tool: Takua
Others: Knife
Process
Sikki grass is harvested along with other crops, washed, and dried for 20–25 days before being split. Its golden sheen distinguishes it from local grasses like khar and moonj. Strands are dyed in vibrant colors such as purple, red, and blue, while some retain their natural hue. Since sikki is delicate, moonj forms the base, wrapped with khar and finished with sikki. The process requires a thick iron needle, a knife, and scissors. Women traditionally use a lac needle called takua for coiling. The coiled baskets, often waterproof and highly durable, feature intricate floral and geometric designs, showcasing Bihar’s artistic heritage.
Design and Color
No ceremony was complete without these baskets, which were used to hold fruits, food grains, and dry cooked items. Deeply ingrained in tradition, they were essential for presenting offerings and storing household essentials.
Product Range
The product range of Sikki craft includes traditional baskets such as daliya, dalawa, dehri, and mauni. Over time, figurative items like figures of gods and goddesses, birds, and animals were introduced to move beyond utilitarian use. Additionally, decorative and utility items such as small boxes, dolls, bouquets, table mats, mobile cases, pen stands, photo frames, and toys were also made.