Deep down the Bay of Bengal on an ancient trade route to the Far East, in the Nicobar archipelago lived the Nicobarese. The islands once upon a time were much frequented by passing traders for sojourns. The Nicobarese used to barter coconuts with them for fancies like an old hat or a coat, silk handkerchiefs, sometimes even empty alcohol bottles. In 1956, after being annexed to the Indian state, the Islands came to be protected under the Andaman and Nicobar Protection of aboriginal Tribes Regulation. Free Passage was restricted.