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Stage set for GI tag for Udayagiri cutlery
Stage is set for achieving prestigious GI tag for the Udayagiri wooden cutlery. The craft’s origin dates back to 14 th century, when the region was under the rule of Gajapathi Kings, it was also patronised by kings of Vijayanagara Empire
Nellore: Stage is set for achieving prestigious GI tag for the Udayagiri wooden cutlery. The craft’s origin dates back to 14 th century, when the region was under the rule of Gajapathi Kings, it was also patronised by kings of Vijayanagara Empire
Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation, which realised significance of the age-old craft of the local Muslim population, who have been practising it for many centuries, filed the application for the Geographic Indication (GI) to the GI Registry, Chennai, in March 2015.
On Nov 30, 2016, GI journal had published the advertisement for any objections as part of procedure before awarding the certificate. Major part of the official process is over and now the certification is awaited after finding any objections.
Local artisans say the craft is said to have originated during the Qutub Shah dynasty and passed on to generations over time. It came back into attention in late 80s. “During the rule of Nawabs and Jagirs in 18th and 19th century, people from Muslim community used to prepare the cutlery based on the available wood in and around the forest of Udayagiri.
Local poor people continued the tradition and made it as their main livelihood activity and started producing in bulk quantity. The cutlery items like forks, spoons, knives; wooden salad bowls and other wooden crafts throughout the state and also in many parts of the country.
Earlier men used to work on the craft but now mostly Muslim women are practicing it. Now, these artisans are providing stock to Lepakshi and private traders in the state. They are planning to introduce new techniques in the making for betterment of the trade.
“As the application was filed in the first quarter of 2015 and the GI Registry advertised it in the last quarter of 2016. We hope for the best and are expecting the certificate within a short period, which would enhance reputation of our products. We are thankful to the officials who applied for it on our behalf,” said Ghousia Begum, leader of artisans, talking to The Hans India.
