Under the museum series ‘Exhibit of the Month’ of Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, a traditional object is displayed in the appearance for a whole month. The exhibit for the month of February  - “HAMPAI (KACHOR-SA-HAM)” is on display in the indoor exhibition building – Veethi Sankul. The 'exhibit of the month' has been formally inaugurated by By traditional female potters from Manipur This 'exhibit of the month' has been compiled by Mr. N Sakmacha Singh (Museum Associate). Manipur, a well known Indian State to the outside world for rich culture and traditional practices. One of them is pottery. Chakparol- the ancient manuscript mentions that pottery craft or the ancient art of making pottery was conceived from the thalamus of flower locally known as Nura Khudonglei. In the old manuscript Leirol (an ancient text dealing with clay) the flower was described morphologically and tells how the flower came to be known as Nura Khudonglei.

The present exhibit is a work of Thangkhul Naga potters from Manipur who crafted this traditional vessel in a Museum Workshop. Known as Hampai/ Kachor Sa Ham, this massive size earthen pot is used as vessel for ceremonial and festive use.

The art of handmade pottery involves a distinct craftsmanship and unique tools. Longpi is the only village where this unique kind of black ware pottery is practiced in Manipur. Longpi potters use clay and black serpentinite rock known as Lishon to produce the unique wares. The sandy soil is known as Sala-nali is used as tempering material.

Date: February 15, 2016