Kutch Ajrakh Receives Prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Kutch Ajrakh receives the Geographical Indication (GI) certificate. |
| Awarding Authority | Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (CGPDTM). |
| Region | Kutch, Gujarat. |
| Art Form | Ajrakh, a traditional textile craft involving hand-block printing on treated cotton cloth. |
| Historical Roots | Practiced for over 400 years; introduced by Sind Muslims. |
| Key Communities | Rabaris, Maldharis, and Ahirs, who use Ajrakh for turbans, lungis, and stoles. |
| Colors and Symbolism | Blue (sky), red (land and fire), white (stars). Derived from the word "Azrak," meaning indigo. |
| Dyeing and Printing | Fabric washed eight times; treated with vegetable and mineral colors for vibrant hues. |
| Purpose of GI Tag | Legal protection, recognition, and promotion of sustainable livelihoods for artisans. |