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<\/h2>\nTraditional Paddy Field Levelling Implement<\/p>\n
A heavy wooden implement used especially in paddy fields to level and firm the soil. It was traditionally attached to the Noga (yoke)<\/strong> of a pair of oxen and dragged across the field.<\/p>\n Thaya is a traditional wooden agricultural implement used primarily for levelling paddy fields<\/strong> after the soil has been ploughed and worked. Its broad and heavy wooden body helped break down uneven portions of soil and create a relatively smooth and level surface suitable for paddy cultivation.<\/p>\n The Thaya was traditionally tied or connected to the Noga (wooden yoke) of a pair of oxen<\/strong>. As the oxen moved across the wet or prepared paddy field, the Thaya was pulled behind them, pressing and levelling the soil.<\/p>\n This simple but effective implement reflects the traditional knowledge of paddy cultivation in Kodagu, where farmers used locally available timber and bullock power for field preparation.<\/p>\n The Thaya is a broad, heavy and sturdy wooden implement designed to remain in contact with the soil as it is pulled. Its weight and flat working surface enabled it to press down and level the soil effectively.<\/p>\n Traditionally made from strong, durable local timber capable of withstanding continuous contact with wet soil and the pulling force of oxen.<\/p>\n A suitable piece of timber was selected and shaped into a strong, broad implement. The edges and surfaces were finished sufficiently smooth for use in the field, while the attachment point was made suitable for connecting it to the Noga.<\/p>\n The Thaya was secured to the Noga of the oxen<\/strong> using traditional rope or wooden fastening arrangements. As the oxen walked through the paddy field, the implement was pulled over the prepared soil, levelling and firming the surface.<\/p>\n Its simple construction relied on the weight and strength of wood rather than complex mechanical parts. The size, weight and shape were determined by the nature of the paddy field and the power of the bullocks used.<\/p>\n Farmers understood the appropriate stage at which to use the Thaya, particularly when the paddy field had sufficient moisture for the implement to effectively level the soil.<\/p>\n The Thaya was an important implement in traditional wetland paddy cultivation<\/strong>. Proper levelling was essential for maintaining an even distribution of water throughout the paddy field.<\/p>\n Primarily used in paddy fields of Kodagu<\/strong>, particularly during preparation of the field before paddy planting.<\/p>\n The Thaya represents the traditional system of paddy cultivation in which farmers depended on oxen, wooden implements and skilled manual knowledge rather than tractors and mechanical levellers.<\/p>\n Its use declined with the introduction of tractors, power tillers and modern mechanical land-levelling equipment.<\/p>\n The Thaya is now mainly preserved as an example of traditional agricultural heritage. Older implements may still be found in farming households and collections.<\/p>\nFull Description<\/h2>\n
Traditional Use<\/h2>\n
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