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Handicrafts
Handlooms, Pottery and bamboo & cane craft sum up the expertise of the Manipuri people in these traditional crafts. One interesting legend has it that a goddess inspired by a spider weaving its fine and delicate web which drew her attention was determined to perfect her weaving skills and thus was born the exquisite handloom products of Manipur. Almost every home in the state owns a loom from which intricately designed garments, shawls, saris, sarongs (wrap around) and bedspreads. Having materialized as the largest cottage industry it today, exports its products to a number of countries.

Pottery is another skill that the tribes of Andro, Thongjao and Nungbi have mastered over the centuries and that too without the use of a potters wheel. Deftly using their nimble fingers and hands they mould and produce an incredible variety of earthenware.

Bamboo and Cane are important forest produce that the skill and dexterity of the Manipur people turn into superb furniture and other day to day use products. The handicraft emporiums, both private and government, that are located in main towns are a good place to buy some of these handicrafts and handloom items. Manipur dolls and other delicate carvings of wood make excellent gifts.