ODISHA'S CUTTACK
The famous Rupa Tarakasi, or silver filigree work of Odisha’s Cuttack, has received the geographical indication (GI) tag.
The Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Limited (Utkalika) had applied for the tag
2. Rupa Tarakasi
- Cuttack in Odisha is renowned for its exquisite silver filigree craftsmanship characterized by intricate designs. The term "tara" in Odia translates to wire, while "kasi" signifies design. Thus, Rupa Tarakasi involves the transformation of silver bricks into delicate wires or foils, which are then utilized in crafting jewelry or decorative pieces.
- Regarding its origin, although the exact inception of filigree art in Cuttack remains unclear, historical records indicate its existence as far back as the 12th century.
- The art form gained significant patronage during the Mughal era. Throughout Cuttack's historical transitions under various rulers, silver filigree evolved, adapting to new forms with each phase.
- The documentation submitted by the Odisha government to the GI registry highlights the striking skill and delicacy achieved by the people of Cuttack in silver filigree work.
- This craft shares similarities with filigree traditions in regions such as Arabia, Malta, Genoa, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Furthermore, it draws parallels with the filigree work of ancient Greece, Byzantium, and Etruria.
- It is speculated that this art form might have been disseminated to the West by the Phoenicians and Arabs, reaching Scandinavia through the Normans, and being part of medieval trade between Turkestan and Russia
- In Cuttack the work is generally done by boys, whose sensitive fingers, and keener sight enable them to put the fine silver threads together with the necessary rapidity and accuracy. The filigree work is quite distinct in character from the indigenous silver jewellery of the country.”
- Cuttack offers a diverse range of popular product categories, including jewelry, decorative items, accessories, home decor, and religious or cultural pieces.
- Distinctive to Cuttack are items such as the Durga Puja Medha (silver adornments for the Durga idol and pandal), Odissi jewelry, religious or cultural artifacts directly tied to Odisha's customs, and the Dama chain. Despite the evolution of silver filigree craftsmanship over time, the fundamental process has remained unchanged for centuries, with only minor adjustments in tools and components. The primary transformations have occurred in the realms of design and product development.
- While various grades of silver are utilized in the primary metal alloy, craftsmen also incorporate other metals like copper, zinc, cadmium, and tin
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of intellectual property protection that is granted to certain products based on their geographical origin, quality, reputation, and unique characteristics associated with that specific geographical location. The purpose of a GI tag is to recognize and protect the distinctiveness and heritage of products that are deeply rooted in the culture and tradition of a particular region. GI tags are typically granted to products that have specific qualities, characteristics, or reputations that can be attributed to their geographical origin.
The significance of a Geographical Indication tag includes:
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Protection of Heritage and Tradition: GI tags help in safeguarding traditional and indigenous products that are closely linked to the cultural heritage and traditions of a specific region. This protection is crucial in preserving the uniqueness of such products and preventing unauthorized use or imitation.
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Economic Value: Products with GI tags often have unique qualities or characteristics that contribute to their market value. The recognition and protection provided by the GI tag can enhance the economic value of these products, promoting the economic interests of producers from the specific region.
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Market Differentiation: GI tags create a clear distinction for products in the market. Consumers often associate certain qualities and standards with products bearing a GI tag, leading to increased consumer confidence and loyalty. It also helps in differentiating genuine products from imitations or substitutes.
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Promotion of Rural Economy: Many products with GI tags are associated with rural or artisanal communities. The protection of these products through GI tags can contribute to the economic development of these regions by providing better market access and opportunities for local producers.
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Prevention of Misuse: GI tags come with legal protection, making it illegal for products not originating from the designated geographical area to use the specific name or claim the associated qualities. This helps prevent misuse or misappropriation of the geographical indication.
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Cultural Identity: GI tags play a role in preserving and promoting the cultural identity of a region. They highlight the unique qualities and skills that have been passed down through generations, contributing to the cultural diversity of a country
The Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Limited (Utkalika) had applied for the tag.A GI tag is conferred upon products originating from a specific geographical region, signifying unique characteristics and qualities. Essentially, it serves as a trademark in the international market
Source: Indianexpress
