Tharu Women Collecting Moonj Grass for Handicrafts

24-Mar-2026

This image depicts the earliest stage of moonj handicraft practiced by the Tharu tribe in Harnaa Tand village of West Champaran district, Bihar—the collection of raw materials. Tharu women are seen carrying large bundles of moonj grass on their heads after cutting them from nearby forests or riverbanks. This grass serves as the primary material for making baskets, trays, and other handcrafted products. After collection, the moonj grass is dried, sorted, and dyed before being used for weaving. The scene reflects the daily life, hard work, and close relationship of Tharu women with nature, which forms the foundation of their traditional moonj handicraft.