Considered one of the basic ritual items, it is used for storing uncooked rice, barley or any other raw grains for use during pujas and other rituals, for instance during ceremonies to bless the land or buildings, and during the recitation of auspicious verses.

When Buddhism was first introduced to Tibet from India, flower petals were commonly scattered during pujas and rituals. However, as flowers were scarce in Tibet's harsh climate and landscape, Tibetans improvised by replacing the flower petals with uncooked grains such as barley and later, rice.