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Thoke-Neele is a wooden storage rack designed to hold traditional guns securely and keep them organised within the household. It typically consists of a sturdy wooden frame with horizontal supports or specially shaped rests into which the guns could be placed. The rack could accommodate more than one firearm and was generally positioned in a convenient but secure location. In traditional homes, such a rack formed part of the household's martial and hunting material culture, keeping firearms accessible while also giving them a designated place for storage.
Traditional use: Used for storing traditional guns when they were not being carried or used. It also kept the firearms organised and protected from unnecessary damage.
Cultural significance: The Thoke Neele reflects the important place firearms occupied in traditional Kodava households. It was both a practical storage fixture and part of a household's visible martial heritage
Historical context: With firearms becoming firmly established in Kodava society, dedicated storage became necessary. The Thoke Neele provided an organised place for keeping guns such as traditional muzzle-loading firearms and later caplock guns.
The wooden frame and supports were cut, shaped and joined by traditional carpentry. The supporting sections were positioned to hold the guns securely without damaging their stocks or barrels.
Size depended on the number and type of guns to be stored. Smaller racks could hold a few firearms, while larger examples could accommodate several guns.
Reason for decline: The decline of traditional firearms in everyday life, along with modern gun storage systems, cupboards and changing household architecture, reduced the need for traditional wooden gun racks.
Revival efforts: Surviving Thoke Neele can be preserved in traditional homes, museums and heritage displays. Reproductions can also be made by local woodworkers for heritage houses and cultural exhibitions.
