The deng gwi

The deng gwi, as it is known in the Kokborok language, is a traditional machine used to grind rice and other grains. It is made of wood—either from the sal or the koroi tree—and is 3-4 metres long. Its functioning is simple yet effective. One has to repeatedly step on and release one end of the tool, so that the grain kept on the other end is beaten with the gula, until it is sufficiently ground.

The deng gwi is a common find in Tripura’s Adivasi households.

Rabindra Debbarma is a beekeeper from Tripura. This story was translated from Kokborok by Luna Debbarma. You can read the full version on Adivasi Lives Matter.