To the Forefront: GI Tags of Tamil Nadu!

India is home to many unique and indigenous products and art forms, and GI tags are an indication of their authenticity. Let's shine a spotlight on such designs, patterns, products, and noteworthy items that are famous from specific regions and bear the title of Geographical Indication. Here are a few GI Tags of Tamil Nadu.

1. Narasinghapettai Nagaswaram

Narasinghapettai nagaswaram is a classical wind music instrument traditionally crafted in the village of Kumbakonam. It is fashioned from metal and a special kind of wood sourced from the Aacha (Hardwickia Binata) tree by the local artisans of the village. This instrument is also referred to as Nakaswaram or Nagaswaram due to its snake-like shape and the belief that it was bestowed by Lord Shiva upon the demon, Nagasuran. Integral to Carnatic music concerts, weddings, festivals, and temple ceremonies, it is also termed as Mangala Vadyam, signifying its role as an auspicious instrument.

Received GI Tag in 2022

2. Dindigul Locks

These special locks derive their name from their place of origin. Dindigul, also known as the lock city, is a city in Tamil Nadu where these locks are manufactured. Also referred to as Mango Locks, they have been produced for over 500 years in the city. The lever mechanism in these locks is manually assembled with a unique key code. The shackles are meticulously designed, providing greater resistance to anyone attempting to break in. The abundance of iron in the region is the primary reason for the growth of the lock-making industry.

Received GI Tag in 2019

3. Kandangi Saree

Kandangi is a type of saree made from cotton in the Chettinad and Koorainad regions of Tamil Nadu. It is woven in a Mubbagam or "tripartite design," typically featuring a checked or striped body and two broad, contrasting borders. There are different versions of the same saree: Koorai, which is made using silk and cotton threads, and Chettinad, which has two borders and is checkered at its center. These forms date back around 250 years and are still practiced by local weavers.

Received GI Tag in 2019

4. Salem Silk

White Silk, known in the native language as Salem Venpattu, is used to make sarees and dhotis in the Salem District of Tamil Nadu. The name derives from the term "Salya," representing the ancient weaving community. The products feature motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers and birds.

Received GI Tag in 2008

5. Pathamadai Mat

Pathamadai or Pattu Paai are handmade silk mats made in Tamil Nadu. The people of Tirunelveli district are experts in weaving these mats. They are made of Korai grass and feature intricate designs with multiple colors. These mats are typically used in family functions and weddings, and some are customized with the names of the bride and groom.  

Received GI Tag in 2013

6. Arni Silk

Arni Silk is produced in the town of Arni situated in the Thiruvannamalai District of Tamil Nadu. Sarees are crafted using mulberry silk in both warp and weft, employing dobby fabric techniques. The most unique and distinguishing aspect of Arni sarees is that they feature two different bodices on either side and even two different pallus. The silks are embellished with checked patterns called "Kottadis" along with stripes.

Received GI Tag in 2008

7. Tanjavur Paintings

Originating from Thanjavur, this is a classical South Indian style painting. These paintings are made with golden intricate designs with colorful patterns. Mostly, idols and deities of gods are made out of this art and are also known as Palagai Padam – meaning “picture on a wooden plank” – as they are typically completed on boards made from jackfruit or teak wood.

Received GI Tag in 2007-08

8. Temple Jewellery of Nagercoil

The deities of the temple in Nagercoil, a small town in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, are adorned with jewelry. This jewelry is exclusively crafted in a small village called Vadasery, made from silver covered with gold leaf and sometimes studded with a stone known as Kuchu Kal. Although originally intended for gods, this jewelry is also worn by men and women.

Received GI Tag in 2018

9. Mahabalipuram Stone Sculptures

Mahabalipuram Stone Structures are intricate carvings on a stone. Exquisite rock-sculpting techniques are used to make these sculptures. It is characterized by art and architecture that flourished in the period of the Pallavas.

10. Thirubuvanam Silk Sarees

Thirubhuvanam is a silk saree made in the Thirubhuvanam town of Tamil Nadu. These are 3 ply sarees with silver or golden zari on one side of the border. Asymmetrical patterns and motifs such as birds, temples, and flowers are drawn on the sarees filled with colorful strokes.

Also Read: Handloom Communities of India are Keeping Alive the Weaving Legacy!