Gujarat’s traditional cultural handicraft heritage ‘Gharchola’ has been given GI tag (Geographical Indication Tag) by the Government of India. This is an important achievement towards giving global recognition to the art and cultural heritage of Gujarat.
Gharchola: Cultural Heritage of Gujarat
Meaning and Importance:
- ‘Gharchola’ means ‘cloth worn at home’.
- In this, ‘home’ refers to the bride’s new house, and ‘chola’ is the cloth worn by the bride to enter the new house.
- This saree is an important and sacred part of Gujarati weddings.
Manufacturing and Design:
- Material: This saree is mainly made of cotton or silk.
Design
- Fine zari work is done on it.
- Figures of peacock, lotus, and flowers and leaves are engraved.
- It is identified by its grid pattern.
- Origin: The making of Gharchola started from Khambhat district of Gujarat.
Cultural and economic importance
- Tradition in weddings: This saree is not only a traditional dress but also a symbol of Gujarati culture and beliefs.
- Support to local artisans: Getting GI-tag provides economic benefits to local artisans and weavers.
- Gharchola saree is not just a dress but a symbol of Gujarati culture, tradition, and art.
Important things related to GI tag
- Geographical Indicator (GI Tag): This tag is given to recognize the unique identity and quality product of a region.
- Contribution of Gujarat in the handicraft sector: With ‘Gharchola’, Gujarat has so far received 23 GI tags in the handicraft sector.
- Status in other sectors: Apart from handicraft, Gujarat has so far received only 4 GI tags in other sectors.
- Importance: This tag ensures the quality and authenticity of the product and provides a unique identity to the product in the international market.
GI Tag
- Introduction: GI (Geographical Indication) tag is a mark that indicates the special geographical origin of a product and its distinctive quality or reputation. It is recognized as an Intellectual Property Right (IPR).
- Legal basis: GI tag has been considered as a part of intellectual property rights under the Paris Convention and TRIPS Agreement.
Benefits: Registered owners get the following rights related to GI tag
- Legal protection: Protection from illegal use and imitation.
- Right to exclusive use: Only registered owners can use the GI tag.
- Prevention of misinformation and unfair competition.
- Types of products: GI tag is used for a variety of products, such as:
- Agricultural products: like rice, tea.
- Handicrafts: like Banarasi saree.
- Food items: Such as sweets.
- Industrial products: Such as products with special craftsmanship.
Eligibility
- Application can be made by any trade association, organization, or group.
- The uniqueness of the product must be proved with historical records and details of the production process.
Legal validity
- Products are given GI-tag under the ‘Geographical Indicator of Goods’ (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
- Registration of GI-tag is valid for 10 years, which can be renewed later.
- Importance: GI tag not only recognizes the uniqueness of the product but also strengthens the identity and economic benefits of local artisans and farmers.