First Tribal Craft Shop of Andaman & Nicobar: The Island Heritage Craft Center

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands have taken a significant step towards preserving and promoting tribal craftsmanship with the launch of the first tribal craft shop, The Island Heritage Crafts Center, on 18th February, 2025. Located at RGT Road, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), this center serves as a dedicated platform for showcasing and supporting the indigenous artisans of the region.

A Platform for Andamans’ Tribal Craftsmanship

The craft center features a variety of tribal products, including those with Geographical Indication (GI) tags. Some of the standout items include:

• Nicobari Mats (Chatrai-hileuoi) – Handwoven mats created using traditional techniques.

• Nicobari Hodi – Traditional outrigger canoes, symbolic of the Nicobarese way of life.

• Nicobari Virgin Coconut Oil (Tavi-i-Ngaich) – A premium product recognized for its purity and quality.

• Padauk Wood Crafts – Artistic woodwork made from the native Andaman Padauk tree.

• Cane and Bamboo Weaving – Used to make baskets, fish traps, hats, and other utility items by Nicobarese and other tribes like the Onges and Shompens (limited exposure).

• Traditional Tribal Jewelry – Handcrafted from shells, bones, seeds, and coral—especially used in cultural events and rituals.

• Areca Palm Leaf Products – Plates, cups, and crafts made sustainably from fallen areca palm leaves, used in tribal households and gaining eco-tourism appeal.

• Hand-Carved Totems & Figurines – Often spiritual or symbolic, made from driftwood or Padauk, reflecting tribal cosmology or myths.

• Traditional Textiles (Non-commercial) – Although rare and mostly ceremonial, some traditional garments like the taikut or thathu among Nicobarese may be showcased for cultural display, even if not for sale.

• Shell Craft (Minimal Tribal Use) – While not purely tribal, shell-based décor and utilitarian items do reflect island traditions and are often made in community workshops.

The Rich Artistic Heritage of the Nicobarese

The Nicobarese people are known for their deep artistic traditions, which include:

• Sculptural Art – Intricately crafted indoor figures called kareau, placed on altars facing house entryways.
• Weaving – Use of natural fibers to create unique handcrafted items, often used in community rituals and ceremonies.
• Music and Dance – Traditional performances that reflect the cultural essence of the Nicobarese.
• Handicrafts – Shell crafts, cane and bamboo products, and handwoven textiles that represent the indigenous way of life.

Empowering Tribal Artisans The establishment of The Island Heritage Crafts Center plays a crucial role in supporting tribal artisans by:

• Providing a sustainable source of income.
• Preserving and promoting traditional tribal crafts.
• Strengthening the economic independence of tribal communities.
• Increasing awareness and appreciation of Nicobari heritage.

The opening of The Island Heritage Crafts Center marks a significant milestone in promoting tribal heritage and self-sufficiency in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. With community participation and support, this initiative will help safeguard the cultural and artistic traditions of the Nicobarese people while creating economic opportunities for future generations.