The cot at Sadda Pind in Amritsar, known as the Biggest Cot in India, measures 12 feet wide and 18 feet long. It has been specifically designed to comfortably accommodate up to 40 people at a time. The primary purpose of constructing this cot was to reintroduce visitors to the significance of cots in Punjabi village life, symbolizing efficiency, hospitality, and togetherness.
The construction of the cot involved the use of high-quality wood and took approximately 2.5 months to complete. Skilled labourers meticulously selected the finest wood and dedicatedly worked to create this unique piece of furniture. The weaving of the cot required around 39 kilograms of rope, further highlighting the craftsmanship and attention to detail involved.
Visitors to Sadda Pind have the opportunity to experience the significance of the cot first hand. It serves as a reminder of the civic harmony found in Punjabi villages, where people from different religions, castes, and classes would come together to sit on cots, sharing their joys and sorrows. For many visitors, this cot rekindles childhood memories and provides a chance to reconnect with the cultural heritage of Punjab.
Known as 'Manja' in Punjabi and 'Khatia' or 'Charpai' in Hindi, the cot has a long history in India. Its lightweight nature allowed for easy portability, a feature that impressed travellers like Ibne Battuta. The exact origins of the charpai are unclear, but it is believed to be more than 5,000 years old.
Traditionally, wooden cots served multiple purposes in rural households. They were used for sitting, sleeping, drying grains, sunbathing, and even as a means to transport the sick and elderly to hospitals. The cot played a significant role in the social, religious, and political aspects of village life, bringing people together on a common platform.
Sadda Pind aims to preserve Punjab's cot culture and the traditional knowledge of cot weaving. As visitors enter Sadda Pind, they are greeted by the Biggest Charpai in India. Guests can sit on it, take a peaceful nap, and reconnect with the cultural heritage of their ancestors while creating new memories of their own. By showcasing this cot, Sadda Pind seeks to revive and celebrate the importance of cots in Punjabi village life.
