Material Culture Changes Among the Bodos

Traditionally, Bodo housing construction involved specific plot and site selection, utilizing natural raw materials for houses built around a main yard for different purposes, with the 'nomano' (north side house) being essential. However, factors such as ecological changes, education, mass media, religious shifts, population growth, architectural advancements, and scientific-technological developments have led to deviations from these traditional housing practices, with some no longer constructing the 'nomano' or adhering to specific house usage.

Historically, Bodos produced their own weaving raw materials like 'khun khundung' and 'endi khundung' (spun with 'thaokhri'), and families wove traditional garments such as 'dokhona', 'gamsa', 'phali', and 'phasra' on their own looms. Weaving expertise was considered a key eligibility for marriage. Due to changes in occupational life, this tradition has largely diminished, with only a few families still weaving for economic purposes. Modern Bodos, particularly in cities, increasingly adopt common dresses and market-bought ornament designs, reflecting a shift away from traditional attire and craftsmanship.