The crafts of Tripura bear testimony to the skill, aesthetic sensibilities and decorative abilities of the craftsperson. The crafts of Tripura are completely indigenous which range from cane and bamboo craft, handlooms and weaving baskets. Tripura has a large population of tribals, thus has a tradition of different kinds of crafts. Handloom is the prime craft of Tripura. The obvious feature of Tripura handloom is vertical and horizontal stripes with distributed embroidery in multiple colours. Furniture, toys, objects of daily utility such as lamp shades, baskets, calendars, ivory work and Tripuri tribal jewellery are prominent attractions among the tourists.
Bamboo and Cane Crafts
Endowed with rich forests, which are densely covered with cane and bamboo, the people of the region have made the maximum use of the raw materials. A beautiful array of cane and bamboo products is available in the local market, which range from furniture and table mats, lampshades etc. The products have a huge demand outside India and therefore they are exported. Decorative items made out bamboo and canes, which are always on demand, include ceilings, paneling, plaques, pot containers etc. Some exclusive items of bamboo and cane include small-framed mirror, hair clips, powder case, decorative trays etc. Bamboo and cane ornaments are not available in any other part of the world.
Handloom
The tribal people produce their own clothes and therefore handloom is the oldest industry in the state. The people of the state are known for producing elegant designs, attractive colour combinations and fine texture. Weaving is the part and parcel of the life of the people. Weaving is done on commercial and non-commercial looms. The handloom industry is a reflection of tribal culture in the state. Risa and Riha are two traditional handloom items that are used during rituals.
Basketry
Basketry is an important form of craft in the state. The variety of baskets produced in the state include jamatia firewood basket, riang carrying basket, tukri, karawala tukri, laii, sempa khari, date basket, turi, grain storage basket, dulla and sudha - the traditional fish trap.
Woodcraft
Due to the presence of dense forest, wood is often used as a raw material for making different items by the tribal population. Most of them are daily utility items but have gradually evolved as interior decor item for modern homes. From statues, to trays, lampshades, and even utensils are made of wood and comes with intricate carvings on it.
