Telangana360

The Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of Intellectual Property Right (IPR) that provides a robust legal framework to protect and preserve products intrinsically linked to a specific region. It serves as a vital tool for economic empowerment and cultural preservation in India. The Significance of a GI Tag in India A Geographical Indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics that are essentially attributable to that origin. Legal Protection The GI tag grants exclusive legal rights to authorized users, preventing its unauthorized use by producers outside the designated geographical area. This acts as a crucial defense against counterfeiting and misuse. Economic Impact The tag ensures that local communities and artisans receive the premium value associated with their unique product, leading to increased demand, higher prices, and boosted rural development. Validity and Administration  In Ind...

Telangana's Premier GI-Tagged Pulse Tandur Red Gram is a distinguished variety of pigeon pea (commonly known as Tur or Arhar dal) cultivated in the Tandur region of the Vikarabad district in Telangana, India. Renowned for its superior quality, it has earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, a testament to its unique characteristics derived from its place of origin. This pulse is a vital source of protein and a key agricultural commodity for the region. What is Red Gram (Pigeon Pea) Red Gram, scientifically known as Cajanus cajan, is a perennial legume belonging to the Fabaceae family. A staple food grain in many parts of the world, it is widely consumed in South Asia under names like Arhar, Tur, or Pigeon Pea. Introduced to India over 3,500 years ago, it has since spread throughout Asia, Africa, and Latin America, forming a crucial part of the diet for millions. The Geographical Indication (GI) Tag In a significant milestone, Tandur Red Gram was granted the Geographical Indicatio...

A Legacy of Art and Gloss The vibrant art of Nirmal paintings is a captivating blend of Indian and Mughal artistic traditions, originating from the town of Nirmal, which serves as the district headquarters in the Nirmal District of northern Telangana, India. Nestled amidst the hills of the Sahyadri mountain range, this art form is famed for its glossy sheen, intricate detailing, and rich color palette. These paintings are a testament to centuries of skilled craftsmanship by the Naqash community. History: A Royal Patronage and Artistic Evolution 🎨 The story of Nirmal paintings is a tale of enduring artistic tradition fostered by royal support. Ancient Roots and Influences : The craft's origins date back to the 14th century, initially thriving under the Kakatiya dynasty. During this period, the art was heavily influenced by the murals of the Ajanta Caves. Mughal and Nizam Patronage: The art received significant support from the Mughals and later the Nizam of Hyderabad from the 17th...

Dokra (also spelled Dhokra) metal craft is one of the most fascinating tribal art forms of India, and it holds a special place in the cultural fabric of Telangana. This ancient art, renowned for its rustic beauty and timeless charm, is especially practiced in the tribal regions of Adilabad district. The craft derives its name from the Dhokra Damar tribes, traditional metal-smiths who create exquisite artifacts using the unique lost wax casting technique — a method that has remained unchanged for centuries. GI Tag (Geographical Indication) The Adilabad Dokra craft has received official international recognition by being awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. GI Tag Status : Awarded Year of Award : 2018 (specifically, the GI tag was accorded on March 28, 2018). Significance: The GI tag certifies that the product originates from the Adilabad region of Telangana and possesses a quality, reputation, or characteristic unique to that geographical area. This legal protection prevents ...

Pembarthi: The Village Where Brass Sings the Song of Kakatiyas Nestled within the Jangaon district of Telangana, the village of Pembarthi—often spelled Permbarti—is a humble locale with a towering reputation. It is a place where tradition is not merely preserved but actively forged, quite literally, in gleaming brass. World-famous for its intricate and exquisite brassware craftsmanship, Pembarthi is a testament to the enduring power of hereditary skill. The air here vibrates with the rhythmic clink and tap of mallets, as artisans transform dull brass sheets into fascinating and wonderful objects of art and utility, ranging from idols and figurines to utilitarian utensils and decorative pieces. In 2023, the village was celebrated for its sustainable development and tourism appeal, earning the Best Tourism Village award in the Silver Category. History and Heritage The craftsmanship of Pembarthi is a direct link to the glorious past of the region, specifically the Kakatiya dynasty. The fo...

Nirmal toys are world-famous traditional wooden toys originating from the historic town of Nirmal in Telangana, India. This 400-year-old craft, known as Naqashi Art, is a rich tradition encompassing finely carved soft wood toys, attractive paintings, and furniture. The art form is deeply rooted in the region's history, tracing its origins back to the Kakatiya era and flourishing under the patronage of the 17th-century ruler Nimma Naidu. The craft is kept alive by a cluster of approximately 60 families and holds a position of pride in Indian handicrafts, recognized internationally, and protected by its Geographic Indication (GI) status awarded in 2009. Historical Origin and Patronage Nomenclature: The town and the craft derive their name from the 17th-century ruler, Nimma Naidu, who had a great interest in art. Founding: Nimma Naidu established the industry by collecting around 80 artists. Ancient Roots: The craft is an age-old tradition dating back to the Kakatiya era with a record...

Cheriyal Scroll Painting is a highly stylized version of Nakashi art, characterized by local motifs peculiar to the Telangana region. The art form gets its name from the village of Cheriyal in the Siddipet district, an hour's drive from Hyderabad, which serves as its last outpost. Historical and Sociological Significance  The tradition originated several hundred years ago and was traditionally practiced by the Nakashi artists. The scrolls were used by the Kaki Podagollu, a traveling community of storytellers and balladeers. This team of performers (usually five people) would travel through Telangana, using the painted scrolls as a visual aid (akin to a comic strip or a film roll) to narrate stories, ballads, and epics to illiterate villagers. This made the Cheriyal scrolls once sociologically and culturally significant as a tool for mass education and entertainment. Traditional Format and Technique Material: Canvas scrolls made from Khadi cloth. Dimensions: A traditional scroll was...

The Karimnagar Silver Filigree is a celebrated ancient art form from Karimnagar, India, renowned for its exquisite silver artifacts and ornaments crafted from fine, twisted silver wire. This delicate technique, known locally in Telugu as vendi teega pani (work done with silver wire), has a rich history spanning at least two centuries and received official recognition with a Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2007. Initially gaining popularity and patronage during the Nizam era, the craft is currently undergoing a revitalization, notably through the involvement of women artisans, which is helping to make these traditionally elite items more accessible to the common market. History and Evolution of the Craft The silver filigree tradition in the region is said to have been adopted about 200 years ago in the town of Elgandal, near present-day Karimnagar in Telangana. It later migrated to Karimnagar town in the early 20th century. Historical accounts credit a widely traveled professiona...

Warangal Durries are a celebrated craft from the Deccan region of India, with a tradition tracing back to the Mughal era. These geometric-patterned rugs are a hallmark of the country's rich handloom practice and are highly sought after in both national and international markets. The craft is centered in Warangal, Telangana, and was officially granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in March 2018, protecting its unique identity. Despite their renown and the skill of the artisans, the industry faces challenges related to branding, marketing, and ensuring the craft's continuation. The Craft and Its Heritage History and Significance The tradition of durry-making in Warangal dates back to the Mughal army's arrival in the Deccan region. Artists and craftsmen accompanying the army began making carpets, and the local population soon adopted it as a source of income, passing the skill down through generations. Today, it remains a highly labour-intensive, rural-based cottage ind...

The Telia Rumal is a unique double ikat textile from the village of Puttapaka in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. It is characterized by an elaborate pre-dyeing treatment of the yarn with castor ash, sesame oil, and sheep dung to enhance color retention, moisture-holding, and impart a distinct oily quality and scent. The name literally translates to "oiled/oily kerchief." The craft, which originated in Chirala, Andhra Pradesh, was primarily developed due to high demand from Arabic markets. Master weaver Gajam Govardhana and his family are credited with keeping the Telia Rumal tradition alive, expanding the product range from small kerchiefs to saris, dupattas, and dress materials. 🧵 Key Characteristics and Technique Double Ikat and Yarn Treatment The Telia Rumal is essentially a double ikat weave, a rare and highly skilled technique where both the warp and the weft yarns are tied (resist-dyed) and then woven to create the pattern. Its distinctiveness, however, lies...

The Narayanpet saree is a celebrated Indian textile, woven from either cotton or silk. It exemplifies the beautiful merger of cultures within the Indian Subcontinent, particularly notable for its unique design and rich history. These sarees have enjoyed significant acclaim, including royal Maratha patronage, and were historically regarded as the garment of the Gods, used to drape idols and worn by the aristocracy. Today, they are known for being an easily affordable silk garment, increasing their popularity globally and benefiting the weaving community in Narayanpet. Historical Origins and Royal Patronage The history of the Narayanpet saree is strongly linked to the Maratha kingdom and Chatrapati Shivaji. Maratha Connection: One popular account suggests that in 1630 AD, during Shivaji Maharaj's campaign in the Deccan, he was impressed by the brightly colored saris of the local women, leading to the saree gaining Royal Maratha Patronage. Weavers' Migration: Another version, sup...

Gollabhama sarees, hailing from Siddipet in Telangana, are a globally recognized textile art form, distinguished by their unique woven motifs and protected by a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. These sarees derive their name from the intricate "Gollabhama" (milkmaid) motifs inspired by the lore of Lord Krishna and the Golla community. Despite their international fame and cultural significance, the weavers behind these masterpieces face significant challenges, with sales remaining discouraging and their numbers dwindling dramatically. This document delves into the art, process, and current state of the Siddipet Gollabhama handloom tradition, exploring its rich heritage and the urgent need for its preservation. The Art and Motifs of Gollabhama Sarees This section covers the defining visual and thematic characteristics of the sarees. The Iconic Motif: The sarees are named after the "Gollabhama" or milkmaid motif, which depicts the bewitching silhouette of women from ...

The Gadwal Saree is a handcrafted woven sari originating from Gadwal in the Jogulamba Gadwal district of Telangana, India. Renowned for its unique structure and artistry, it is a significant part of India's textile heritage. A true Gadwal saree is characterized by its lightweight cotton body intricately woven with a heavy silk pallu (the decorative end piece) and borders, often featuring elaborate Zari work (metallic thread). This distinctive "interlocking weft" technique results in a saree so finely woven that it can be packed into a matchbox. In 2010, its uniqueness and cultural importance were formally recognized when it was registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) under the Geographical Indications of Goods Act, 1999. Section 1: Materials and Production Process Materials: Gadwal sarees are traditionally woven using a combination of cotton for the body and silk (typically tussar or mulberry) for the border and pallu. This blend gives rise to the name "Sico...

Chennur silk sarees shine brightly with their elegance and rich history. Hailing from Chennur, a small village in Nirmal District, Telangana State, India. These sarees are a representation of a beautiful and ancient craft. Let’s explore the story of Chennur silk sarees, their unique features, and why they continue to attract fashion lovers, especially the younger generation. The Kalamkari Hand Painted Chennur Silk Saree is a masterpiece of Indian textile artistry. Crafted from exquisite Chennur silk, this saree features intricate hand-painted Kalamkari motifs that tell captivating stories of tradition and culture. The vibrant colors and detailed designs make it a visual delight, showcasing the skill of skilled artisans. Chennur is famous for its silk weaving tradition. This craft has been passed down through generations, with families perfecting the art of making stunning silk sarees. The village is close to Tussar and Mulberry silk fields, which provide the high-quality silk threads u...

Cheriyal (or Cherial) is a town and a municipality in Siddipet district in the state of Telangana in India  an hour’s drive from Hyderabad and about 85 kms from Warangal city is known for its unique scroll paintings and masks created by artists called Nakashis. This art form is unique to the state of Telangana.  The name that the art form is known by today, i.e., Cheriyal, is derived from the town it is currently practised in.The practice of the art form is much more limited than it was previously. Initially, these paintings were known as nakash or naqash, which translates to a drawing or a sketch. Art and tourism often go hand in hand, with art being a popular tourist attraction. The people involved in the creation of these traditional nakash or Cheriyal paintings, are a community known as the Nakashis. Other than this community, there is another important group of individuals associated with this tradition. It is important to note that the actual purpose of these scroll...