A set of Xorais on display
Two extra large Xorais being used by the roadside welcoming visitors to Kaziranga National Park

The Xorai (Assamese pronunciation: [xɔɹaɪ]), a manufactured bell metal product is one of the traditional symbols of Assam, which is considered as an article of great respect by the people of Assam.[1][2][3] In simplistic terms it is an offering tray with a stand at the bottom which is used in felicitations also.[4][5] There are Xorais with or without a cover on the top. Hajo and Sarthebari are the most important centers of traditional bell-metal and brass crafts in Assam.[6]

Usage

  • As an offering tray for tamul-pan (betel nuts and betel leaves) to guests as a sign of welcome and thanks.[7]
  • As an offering tray for food and other items placed in front of the altar (naamghar) for blessing by the Lord.
  • As a decorative symbol in traditional functions such as during Bihu dances (modern usage)
  • As a gift to a person of honour during felicitations (modern usage)
Xorai
Xorai with Gamosa, Tamul and Paan, a tradition in Assam

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Culture of Assam | ASSAM GOVERNMENT". assam.gov.in. Retrieved 2019-07-02.
  2. ↑ Mathew, Elizabeth (2017-10-13). "Insider's guide: Assam to Mizoram". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 2019-07-02.
  3. ↑ Baruah, Parthajit (2018-10-05). "Giving voice to the voiceless". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 2019-07-02.
  4. ↑ "Rahul Gandhi's 49th Birthday: Glimpses from His Life in Pictures". News18. 2019-06-19. Retrieved 2019-07-02.
  5. ↑ "Hima feted for her golden track feat". telegraphindia.com. Retrieved 2019-07-02.
  6. ↑ "Time to give the makers a xorai". telegraphindia.com. Retrieved 2019-07-02.
  7. ↑ "Sourav Ganguly speaks about MS Dhoni's position leading into the World Cup". Hindustan Times. 2018-10-22. Retrieved 2019-07-02.
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