Hakusara

About

Product: Sanan rai – Clay pots

Sana Rai in Atauro is a unique tradition in the village of Arlo and in all Atauro that is nearly disappearing; Avo Joana and Catarina (their age is about one hundred years old) are the last generation with the technical knowledge of making the sanan rai. In the past, women made the clay pots for cooking or keeping water and for boiling water, and women also made small plates called papilawati for cooking traditional foods such as corn, cassava and others. 

Because the grandparents were old and didn’t want to lose this tradition, with the help of Empreza Di’ak Joana and Catarina decided to teach their children and other youth about making sanan rai. Currently, the tradition was revived in and about 30 women have the ability to make the pots and this tradition has become an income generating activity. 

The process of making the clay pots is very long because women have to go and collect the clay soil, sift it and then mix and put water and mix. Then they make the pot and leave it to dry on the hot sun before baking it with open fire. The preparation of a pot does not require a variety of equipment but only a round stone with a wooden tool. Above all, it is important to be patient to obtain good results.

Group Profile

Although they are known as the sanan rai group, the true name of the group is Hakusara, which means “Haburas Kultura Sanan Rai.” It was established in 2013 and is now composed of about 30 women who continue to produce a variety of products such as pots, cups, plates, lamps, candleholders and clay statues in a variety of forms. 

Although located in the most isolated area of Atauro, the group is led by women, Lita Gomes da Costa (head of the group), Agostinha Soares Ximenes (secretary – 77108626 / 78266363) and Orba Tilman (Treasurer – 77526788).

Handicrafts