The Gamosa is an article of great significance for the people of Assam. Literally translated, it means 'something to wipe the body with' ("Ga"=body, "mosa"=to wipe), Its original term is Gamcha; interpreting the word "gamosa" as the body-wiping towel is misleading. It is generally a white rectangular piece of cloth with primarily a red border on three sides and red woven motifs on the fourth (in addition to red, other colors are also used). Though it is used daily to wipe the body after a bath (an act of purification), the use is not restricted to this. It is used by the farmer as a waistcloth ("tongali") or a loincloth ("suriya"); a Bihu dancer wraps it around the head with a fluffy knot. It is hung around the neck at the prayer hall and was thrown over the shoulder in the past to signify social status. Guests are welcomed with the offering of a "gamosa" and "tamul" (betel nut) and elders are offered "gamosas" ("bihuwaan") during Bihu. It is used to cover the altar at the prayer hall or cover the scriptures. An object of reverence is never placed on the bare ground, but always on a "gamosa". One can, therefore, very well say that the "gamosa" symbolizes the life and culture of Assam.