1: Ajrakh - the Fabric of Beauty and Tradition

  • Ajrakh, a traditional hand-block printing technique used for creating treasured textiles, has roots in Kutch, Gujarat.
  • Items produced using the Ajrakh technique include sarees, dupattas, stoles and more, each adorned with exquisite geometric patterns.
  • The uniqueness of the Ajrakh fabric lies in its use of rich, earth-toned colours like indigo, madder, and mustard.
  • The art of Ajrakh printing has been an intrinsic part of Kutchi culture for centuries, and it recently garnered worldwide recognition by receiving the GI tag.

2: The GI Tag and Its Significance

  • A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a recognition given to products that originate from a specific geographical location and bear qualities or reputation due to that origin.
  • GI tag serves as an intellectual property right and connects a product's reputed quality or characteristics to its geographical origin.
  • In India, the Geographical Indications Registry, under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, issues GI tags.
  • GI tags prevent unauthorised use of registered GIs by others and ensure that only authorised users can use popular product names.
  • This tagging system is advantageous as it helps in the economic prosperity of producers and ensures quality products for consumers.

3: Other Indian Textiles with GI Tags

  • Various other Indian textiles have also been honoured with the GI tag, showcasing the diversity and richness of Indian textiles.
  • Banarasi Silk: Comes from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and is known for its fineness.
  • Chanderi Fabric: Originating from Chanderi, a small town in Madhya Pradesh, it is admired for its delicate and lightweight chromatics.
  • Kanjeevaram Silk: Kanjeevaram sarees from Tamil Nadu are celebrated for their bright vibes, delightful silk, and detailed zari work.
  • Kota Doria: Primarily produced in Muhammadabad Gohna, Mau in Uttar Pradesh, and Kota in Rajasthan, Kota Doria is a popular choice of saree.
  • Odisha Ikat: An Ikat variant that comes from Odisha is admired for its resist dyeing technique.

This significant recognition of Ajrakh from Kutch will undoubtedly contribute to preserving India's traditional artistry and enhancing the economic prosperity of its indigenous artisans.