Tamil Nadu's Jaderi 'Namkatti', Chedibutta Saree and Kanyakumari Matty Banana get GI tag

Tamil Nadu's Jaderi 'Namkatti', Chedibutta Saree, and Kanyakumari Matty Banana Receive GI Tag

Introduction

Tamil Nadu, a state in southern India known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions, has yet another reason to celebrate. Three of its renowned products, namely Jaderi Namkatti, Kanyakumari Matty Banana, and Chedibutta Saree, have been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai. This recognition adds to the state's pride as Tamil Nadu now boasts a remarkable total of 58 products with GI tags, surpassing other states like Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka.

Tamil Nadu's Jaderi 'Namkatti', Chedibutta Saree and Kanyakumari Matty Banana get GI tag

Jaderi Namkatti - A Sacred Tradition

Jaderi Namkatti holds immense significance in Tamil Nadu's religious and cultural practices. It is a type of clay made from high silicate minerals, carefully crafted into a paste that is applied to the foreheads of idols, men, and even temple elephants. This clay paste is known as 'Namam,' and it holds special importance for worshipers of Lord Vishnu, who wear a distinctive 'U' shaped tilak, adorning their foreheads as a mark of devotion.

Kanyakumari Matty Banana - Unique Delicacy

The Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu is blessed with a distinct type of banana known as Matty Banana (Musa sapidisiaca). This variety thrives in the region's high rainfall areas, receiving an average annual rainfall of about 1,469 mm. One striking feature of this banana is its fruit's top, which is 2.5 to 3 cm long and resembles the mouth of a crocodile. Because of this peculiar shape, it is also referred to as 'Crocodile Finger Banana.' Apart from the standard variety, other variants such as Semmatty (Red Matty), Than Matti (Honey Matty), and Malai Matty (Hill Matty) are also cultivated in the region.

Chedibutta Saree - An Artistic Heritage

The Chedibutta Saree is a handloom saree that showcases intricate Chedibutta designs on a fabric made from art silk and cotton blend. The name 'Chedibutta' is derived from two Tamil words - 'chedi' (plant) and 'butta' (repeated motif or design). These sarees are woven using kala silk thread, while the Chedibutta design is carefully crafted using brightly colored cotton threads. Each saree is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, reflecting Tamil Nadu's artistic heritage.

Additional GI Tagged Products

Apart from the three remarkable products from Tamil Nadu, several other products from different regions of India have also been granted the GI tag. Some of these include:

1. Leather shoes from Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

2. Nathdwara Pichhwai painting from Rajasthan.

3. Mushkabudji rice from Kashmir.

4. Rajouri chicory woodcraft from Jammu and Kashmir.

5. Agasechi weyingim (Agasam brinjal) from Goa.

6. Sat Shiro Bheno (Sat Shirancho Bhendo) or Okra, a vegetable crop from Goa.

Conclusion

The GI tag serves as a testament to the unique cultural and traditional significance of products that are deeply rooted in specific geographical regions. Tamil Nadu's Jaderi Namkatti, Kanyakumari Matty Banana, and Chedibutta Saree have rightly earned this recognition, representing the state's vibrant heritage and skilled craftsmanship. These products hold not only commercial value but also immense cultural pride, adding to the diverse tapestry of India's rich cultural heritage.

With Tamil Nadu topping the GI chart with 58 tags, it showcases the state's commitment to preserving its traditional knowledge, heritage, and artistic creations for generations to come. The GI tag ensures that these products remain protected from imitation, promoting fair trade practices and preserving the unique identity of each product and its origin.

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FAQs

1. What is the significance of Jaderi Namkatti in Tamil Nadu?

Jaderi Namkatti is a type of clay made from high silicate minerals, used to create a paste applied to the foreheads of idols, men, and temple elephants. It holds special religious and cultural significance in Tamil Nadu, especially for worshipers of Lord Vishnu.

2. Where is Kanyakumari Matty Banana grown?

Kanyakumari Matty Banana is primarily grown in the Agathiswaram, Thovalai, and Tiruvattar taluks of the Kanyakumari district in Tamil Nadu. The region's high rainfall of approximately 1,469 mm contributes to its successful cultivation.

3. What does the term 'Chedibutta' mean in Chedibutta Saree?

The term 'Chedibutta' is derived from two Tamil words - 'chedi' (plant) and 'butta' (repeated motif or design). It refers to the intricate designs showcased on the Chedibutta Saree, which is crafted using brightly colored cotton threads.

4. How many products from Tamil Nadu have received the GI tag?

Tamil Nadu has secured a total of 58 products with GI tags, making it the top state in India in terms of the number of products recognized and protected under the GI registry.

5. What is the purpose of granting the GI tag to products?

The GI tag is granted to products that possess unique qualities, characteristics, and traditional methods specific to their geographical region. It helps protect these products from imitation and promotes fair trade practices, preserving the cultural heritage of the region and benefiting its producers.