📚 Part of: Meghalaya Agriculture And Culture Mcqs

*The 'Garo' tribe weaves ....., a material used for their dresses along with shirts, bed covers, bed sheets and tablecloths.

Category: Meghalaya Gk

Correct Answer: B) 'Dakmanda'.

Exam Relevance: UPSC Civil Services, State PSC Exams, Anthropology Exams, Cultural Studies

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

The Garo tribe, one of the major ethnic groups in Meghalaya, is known for its traditional weaving practices. 'Dakmanda' is a specific type of fabric woven by the Garo people, used for various purposes including clothing and household items. This fabric is an integral part of Garo culture and is often seen in traditional attire and household textiles.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing 'Dakmanda' with other types of traditional fabrics from different tribes.
  • Not recognizing the specific cultural significance of 'Dakmanda' within the Garo tribe.
  • Misunderstanding the geographical and cultural context of the Garo tribe in Meghalaya.
Explanation:

The Garo tribe is one of the major ethnic groups in Meghalaya, a state in northeastern India. The tribe is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional weaving practices. Among the various fabrics woven by the Garo people, 'Dakmanda' holds a significant place. This fabric is not only used for clothing but also for household items such as bed covers, bed sheets, and tablecloths.

The weaving of 'Dakmanda' is a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations within the Garo community. The process involves intricate techniques and the use of natural dyes, which give the fabric its unique characteristics. The fabric is typically made from cotton and is known for its durability and comfort.

Understanding the cultural significance of 'Dakmanda' is crucial for appreciating the Garo tribe's contribution to the textile industry and their way of life. The fabric is not just a material but a symbol of the tribe's identity and heritage. It is often seen in traditional Garo attire during festivals and ceremonies, showcasing the tribe's rich cultural traditions.

It is important to distinguish 'Dakmanda' from other types of fabrics, such as Munga (a type of silk) and Kanvivaram (a handloom fabric from Tamil Nadu). These fabrics, while significant in their own right, are not associated with the Garo tribe or Meghalaya. Recognizing the specific cultural context of 'Dakmanda' helps in understanding the diversity of traditional crafts in India and the unique contributions of different ethnic groups.

In conclusion, 'Dakmanda' is the correct answer as it is the traditional fabric woven by the Garo tribe, used for various purposes including clothing and household items. This fabric is an integral part of Garo culture and represents the tribe's rich weaving traditions and heritage.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Munga is incorrect. Munga is a type of silk fabric, not a traditional fabric woven by the Garo tribe. It is important to distinguish between different types of fabrics and their cultural origins.
  • Option B: 'Dakmanda' is the correct answer. It is a traditional fabric woven by the Garo tribe, used for various purposes including clothing and household items. This fabric is an integral part of Garo culture and is often seen in traditional attire and household textiles.
  • Option C: Kanvivaram is incorrect. Kanvivaram is a type of handloom fabric from Tamil Nadu, not related to the Garo tribe or Meghalaya. It is important to differentiate between fabrics from different regions and cultures.
  • Option D: None of the above is incorrect. 'Dakmanda' is a specific fabric woven by the Garo tribe, making it the correct answer. This option would be correct if none of the other options were accurate, but in this case, 'Dakmanda' is the correct choice.

Mnemonic: Garo Dakmanda: D for Dress, A for Art, K for Khasi (neighboring tribe), M for Meghalaya

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