Introduction to Banarasi Shehnai 

  • The Banarasi Shehnai is a traditional wind instrument that is an integral part of the rich cultural and craft heritage of Varanasi. 
  • It is deeply rooted in the Banaras Gharana of Indian classical music.
  • The instrument gained national recognition when it was granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. 

 

Importance and Prominence of Banarasi Shehnai 

  • The national prominence of the Banarasi Shehnai was mainly due to Ustad Bismillah Khan, a celebrated Indian musician. 
  • He famously played the shehnai at the Red Fort on India’s first Independence Day. 
  • Khan elevated the Shehnai to prominence in Indian classical music with his performance at the Calcutta All India Music Conference in 1937.
  • He was also awarded India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 2001.
  • Often performed at weddings, religious ceremonies and temple rituals, the Shehnai holds both divine and auspicious status.

 

About Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

  • A GI tag is a name or sign used on specific products that correspond to a particular geographical location or origin. 
  • The GI tag ensures that only authorised users or those residing in the geographical territory are permitted to use the renowned product name. 
  • It aims to protect the product from being copied or imitated by others. 
  • Once registered, a GI is valid for 10 years and can be further renewed. 

 

Legal Framework and Oversight for GI Tag:

  • The legal framework for GI registration includes the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 and the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
  • Oversight of GI registration is performed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.