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Kerala’s First Tribal Handicraft 'Kannadippaya' Secures GI Tag: Chief Minister Unveils Logo


In a momentous occasion for Kerala’s indigenous artisans, the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, announced the official Geographical Indication (GI) status for Kannadippaya, a traditional bamboo mat crafted by tribal communities of the state. The announcement also included the ceremonial release of the product’s official logo, marking a historic recognition of Kerala’s first tribal handicraft to receive the coveted GI tag

The initiative was spearheaded by the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), which has been at the forefront of the documentation and preservation of Kannadippaya for over two years. The mat, whose name translates to “bamboo mirror mat,” is distinguished by its unique ‘kannadi’ (mirror-like) square designs that create varying light-reflective patterns based on the angle of view — a feature achieved through meticulous weaving techniques involving intricate warp and weft arrangements.

Handwoven by tribal women using slivers of Tienostachyum wightii — a thin-walled, long-internode bamboo found abundantly in the Western Ghats — Kannadippaya is a cultural artefact and a symbol of eco-friendly craftsmanship. It is famed for its natural health benefits, believed to provide thermal comfort throughout seasons and alleviate ailments such as rheumatism and back pain.

This craft has been passed down through generations, particularly from mothers to daughters within the Oorali, Mannan, Muthuvan, and Kadar tribes, primarily residing in the districts of Idukki, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Palakkad, and Thrissur. Despite its cultural richness and functionality, the tradition was on the brink of extinction, with only around 60 active weavers continuing the practice today. Other tribal communities, such as the Ulladan, Malayarayan, Malayan, and Hill Pulaya, also participate in the craft, though less frequently.

With GI recognition, Kannadippaya is now poised for global market exposure, enhancing both economic opportunities and cultural pride for Kerala’s tribal artisans. The tag will safeguard the product's authenticity, ensure better pricing, and foster renewed interest in traditional, sustainable craftsmanship.

This achievement stands as a testament to the power of research-driven cultural conservation and the leadership of KFRI in bridging tradition and innovation.










Published on: May 19, 2025

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