In global trade and cultural preservation, Geographical Indication (GI) tags are pivotal in safeguarding unique products rooted in specific geographical origins. Tamil Nadu is renowned for its diverse and rich cultural heritage. Similarly, several spiritual products have been granted Geographical Indication tags to preserve the traditional products crafted by the people of Tamil Nadu.
What are Geographical Indications?
A geographical indication is a sign of protection used on certain products, such as agricultural or handicraft products, indicating their specific geographical origin (such as a town, region, or country). India implemented the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act in 1999, which was enacted on 15th September 2003. This tag not only identifies the geographical region but also signifies certain characteristics, qualities, or reputations associated with the product that are essentially attributable to its origin. GI tags offer legal protection and recognition, ensuring that consumers can trust the authenticity and quality of these products.
Why is it Important?
- GI tags help preserve traditional knowledge, skills, and cultural practices associated with specific products and regions.
- Consumers trust products bearing GI tags for their authenticity and quality. The tags signify that the product meets specific standards and possesses unique qualities derived from its geographical origin, assuring origin and quality.
- GI tags can boost local economies by promoting regional products on a global scale. They create market differentiation, increase demand, and potentially command higher prices, benefiting producers and contributing to sustainable economic growth in the region.
- GI protection can support rural development by generating employment opportunities, improving infrastructure, and encouraging investment in local communities.
- GI tags enhance the global recognition and visibility of products from specific regions. They serve as a marketing tool, distinguishing products in competitive markets and increasing their export potential.
Geographical Indication Tags for Spiritual Products in Tamil Nadu
1. Thanjavur Paintings – Thanjavur
Thanjavur paintings have been awarded a Geographical Indication tag due to their unique artistic qualities, deep cultural and historical significance, and strong association with the Thanjavur region.
2. Temple Jewellery – Nagarkovil
Temple Jewellery of Nagercoil, originating from the Nagercoil region in Tamil Nadu, India, has been recognized as a Geographical Indication. Crafted from gold and precious stones, including the unique red and green "Kuchu kal," this jewellery dates back to the ninth-century Chola dynasty, created to adorn Hindu idols.
3. Bronze Statues – Swamimalai
Swamimalai Bronze Icons are renowned bronze idols and statues crafted in Swamimalai, Tamil Nadu. These exquisite works have been honoured with a Geographical Indication by the Government of India in 2008-09. The history of Swamimalai Bronze Icons dates to the era of the Chola dynasty. The Group of skilled sculptors eventually made Swamimalai their home, establishing a rich tradition of bronze icon crafting that continues to thrive to this day.
4. Kuthu vilakku – Nachiarkoil
The Nachiarkoil lamp, also known as the Annam lamp or Nachiarkoil Kuthuvilakku, is an ornamental brass lamp featuring a series of diyas. This handicraft is exclusively made by the people in Nachiarkoil town, Tamil Nadu, India. Initially, a particular region of people specializing in this craft created these lamps from brass and bell metal in Nagercoil before establishing their practice in Nachiarkoil.
5. Nagaswaram - Narasingapettai
The nagaswaram, integral to Carnatic concerts, weddings, festivals, and temple ceremonies, is known for its rich, resonant sound that enhances rituals and celebrations. Traditionally made from acha maram wood, contemporary makers often use wood from old Chettinadu pillars. Narasinghapettai, a village in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, is renowned for its Narasinghapettai Nagaswaram.
6. Namakatti - Jaderi
Jaderi Namakatti, crafted from rich deposits of hydrous silicate minerals forming fine clay particles, is a traditional product from the small village of Jaderi in the Cheyyar taluk of Tiruvannamalai district, Tamil Nadu, India.
7. Panchamirutham - Palani
Palani Panchamirtham, a type of panchamrita from the Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple in Palani, Tamil Nadu, is made with five traditional ingredients: banana, ghee, honey, jaggery, and cardamom. Additional ingredients such as dates and sugar candies are also included in its preparation.
8. Manjal (turmeric) - Erode
Erode Turmeric, also known as Erodu Manjal, is a prominent spice variety cultivated in the Erode region of Tamil Nadu, India. The Chinna Nadan variety, widely grown there, constitutes over 70% of turmeric production in the Erode district.
9. Stone Sculpture – Mahabalipuram
The Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram consists of 7th- and 8th-century CE religious structures in the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. This site includes 40 ancient Hindu temples and monuments, notable for the largest open-air rock relief in the world: the Descent of the Ganges, also known as Arjuna's Penance.
10. Wooden sculpture – Arumbavur
Since the 1960s, over 250 families of sculptors in Thaluthalai and Bharathipuram, under the Arumbavur town panchayat, have specialized in crafting wood sculptures. These artisans create a diverse range of artworks including idols of deities for temples, chariots, doors, flagpoles (kodimaram), sculptures for offices and homes, human figurines, and more. They predominantly use trees such as Iluppai, Vaagai, Maavilangai, Thaekku, Burma Thaekku, Karungaali, and Athi for their craft.