The Government of India has granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag to the gharchola, a traditional Gujarati sari worn during weddings. With this addition, Gujarat has secured a total of 27 GI tags in recent years, 23 of which are in the handicrafts sector alone.
The official announcement was made during the GI and Beyond – Virasat Se Vikas Tak programme in New Delhi, organised by the Ministry of Textiles’ Handlooms Development Commissioner.
“The GI recognition for gharchola highlights Gujarat’s dedication to preserving its rich artistic heritage. This honour not only celebrates the intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance of gharchola saris but also elevates their status on the global stage,” a government statement read.
Traditionally associated with Hindu and Jain weddings, gharchola saris are crafted in auspicious colours like red, maroon, green, and yellow, which hold deep cultural importance. Over time, Gujarati weavers have blended these traditional designs with modern aesthetics, creating saris that cater to contemporary tastes while retaining their cultural essence.
This evolution has led to a rise in demand for gharchola saris, which are now widely available through Garvi Gurjari sales centres across Gujarat.
The GI tag not only underscores the authenticity and uniqueness of gharchola saris but also serves as a strategic marketing tool to promote these cultural treasures globally, further enhancing their prominence in both domestic and international markets.
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