This antique Indian sarota or betelnut cutter is a cross between scissors and nutcrackers. They're used to shave slivers from the areca (betel) nut which was then mixed with spices and wrapped in betel leaves to make paan. Paan was a stimulant chewed for its psychoactive effects.
Dating from the 19th century. Many sarota were produced in Kutch, Gujarat which was a hub for production.
Dating from the 19th century. Many sarota were produced in Kutch, Gujarat which was a hub for production.