The iconic clay idols of Lakshmi and Ganesh, handcrafted in Banaras, are on the verge of receiving the prestigious GI (Geographical Indication) tag. This recognition is set to rejuvenate Kashi's clay craft, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the region.
Table of contents [Show]
The city of Banaras, also known as Varanasi, is sometimes referred to as the "spiritual heart of India." It is a place where age-old customs meet timeless artistry, and among its many crafts, the skill of making clay idols—especially those of deities like Lakshmi and Ganesh—stands out for its cultural and religious significance.
These painstakingly crafted clay idols, made by local artisans, have been an integral part of festivals, particularly Diwali, where they are revered in Indian homes. As a means of preserving and promoting this age-old craft, attempts are being made to obtain a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Banaras' clay Lakshmi-Ganesh idols.
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a type of intellectual property right that is used to identify products that come from a certain location and have characteristics or a reputation unique to that location. By guaranteeing that only goods that truly originate in a given area may be sold under that designation, the GI tag preserves cultural heritage and boosts the income of regional artists. The GI tag will have several uses for the Banaras clay Lakshmi-Ganesh idols:
1. Preservation of Culture: In order to ensure that future generations cherish and continue to practice this art form, the GI tag will help conserve the special techniques and customs involved in manufacturing these idols.
2. Financial Advantages: The Banaras artisans can demand higher prices for their genuine works by obtaining the GI designation, which will lessen the financial pressure that frequently pushes craftsmen away from traditional handicrafts.
3. Brand Recognition: The GI designation will help Banaras' clay idols become more well-known throughout the world, which could lead to the opening of new markets and an increase in demand.
The process of obtaining the GI tag for the clay Lakshmi-Ganesh idols in Banaras is a laborious one, led by regional associations and assisted by specialists in the domain. One of Varanasi's most well-known organizations, the Human Welfare Association, was instrumental in submitting the GI tag application. The GI Registry office in Chennai has received the application, and the process is now in its advance stages.
Renowned GI specialist Dr. Rajnikant has played a key role in helping the Human Welfare Association and the craftsmen navigate the challenging application procedure. Dr. Rajnikant states that Banaras should be proud of the clay idols' inclusion in the GI registry, as it is a major step in the direction of the resuscitation of the city's ancient crafts.
Many ancient crafts have already obtained GI designations, and Banaras has long been a center for them. The city is currently the greatest hub for GI-tagged products in India, with 32 GI products residing there. The clay craft is particularly noteworthy among them due to its strong ties to the city's religious and cultural identity.
The idols have a spiritual quality that appeals to followers since the clay used to manufacture them comes from the banks of the Ganges. Making these idols is a labor-intensive procedure that calls for creative abilities that have been passed down through the generations as well as a thorough understanding of the characteristics of clay.
The craft of making clay idols in Banaras involves more than just sculpting the material; it's a ritual that starts with choosing the appropriate clay kind and involves a number of delicate steps like molding, drying, and painting. The result is an exquisitely constructed idol that captures Banaras' creative and spiritual legacy.
It is anticipated that the GI tag will significantly alter the life of regional craftspeople in Banaras. These days, a lot of artists are struggling to make ends meet since so many machine-made, cheaper idols flood the market around the holiday season. These mass-produced idols, which are frequently constructed of non-biodegradable materials, are detrimental to the environment and the traditional craft.
Banaras' clay idols will stand out in the market as genuine, environmentally responsible, and culturally significant goods by obtaining the GI designation. Because of this, craftspeople will be able to charge higher rates and enter marketplaces where genuineness and skill are highly valued.
Furthermore, by guaranteeing that only clay idols made in the area may be marketed under the Banaras brand, the GI tag will also aid with reducing the amount of imitations of Banaras' idols. The neighborhood will benefit from the craftsmen' increased prosperity in terms of improved living conditions, more options for their kids to go to school, and the general growth of the area. It will also ensure the craft's continuation by inspiring new generations to pick it up.
When it comes to obtaining GI labeling for its traditional products, Banaras has emerged as a frontrunner. The well-known Banarasi silk sarees, wooden toys, metalware, and now, presumably, the clay Lakshmi-Ganesh idols are among the city's GI-tagged products. Each of these goods is evidence of the city's skilled artisans and rich cultural legacy. The Human Welfare Association, which has filed 80 GI applications in just five months, encompassing products from 12 states and union territories, has expedited the process of obtaining GI tags. These initiatives are a part of a bigger campaign to safeguard and advance India's traditional crafts and make sure that the advantages of globalization trickle down to the local level.
With the GI tag in the horizon, clay craft in Banaras has a bright future. Securing the tag is only the beginning of the journey, though. To guarantee the long-term viability of the craft, a number of issues must be resolved:
1. Education and Talent Acquisition: Demand will increase as a result of the GI tag, but training programs that assist artists improve their abilities and meet the needs of the contemporary market without sacrificing traditional methods must be funded.
2. Access to the Market: It is essential to increase market access both locally and globally. E-commerce sites, exhibits, and partnerships with designers and companies that respect traditional crafts are some ways to accomplish this.
3. Sustainability: The craft's effect on the environment needs to be taken into account. The craft will continue to be environmentally benign if sustainable techniques and the use of natural and biodegradable materials are promoted.
4. Government Support: To assist artisans in overcoming monetary and practical obstacles, the government must continue to provide subsidies, grants, and infrastructure development.
Not only is the prospective GI tag for the Banaras clay Lakshmi-Ganesh idols a win for the artists, but it also marks a critical turning point in the preservation of India's cultural legacy. Banaras's growing prominence as a centre for GI products and the appreciation of its clay craft will spur similar initiatives around the nation and bring traditional arts and crafts back into vogue.
This acknowledgement will also serve as a reminder of how crucial it is to protect our intangible cultural legacy, which is like the Banaras clay idols in that it holds the essence of our country. By ensuring that this skill not only endures but flourishes, the GI tag will ensure that future generations will carry on its tradition and appreciate the creativity and spirituality that define banaras.
