Theme: Geographical Indication (G.I.) Tagged Products
States and Union territories covered: 13
India is a diverse country, which presents itself as a land with rich cultural heritage on one hand and an ever developing, growing nation on the other and this diversity can be acknowledged when we look at the multitude of “Geographical Indication Tagged products” that have been registered with the Government of India. These are the products that are native to a specific Geographical region or origin and are not found in the same form anywhere else, like Salem fabric from Tamil Nadu. We wanted to explore all these products and their origins with greater detail on our journey through various parts of India during this journey. Some of the products about which we researched are Muga silk of Assam, Malda Mangoes, Banglar Rasogolla Bhagalpur Silks, Shahi Litchi, Muzaffarpur, Varanasi Glass Beads, Varanasi Glass Beads, Mirzapur Handmade Dari, Lucknow Chikan Craft, Phulkari Embroidery, Amritsar, Makrana Marble, Blue Pottery of Jaipur, Leather Toys of Indore, Villianur Terracotta Works (Puducherry) etc. We got to know about their preparation method and why they belong to that particular place. Each product was unique in its appearance and way of preparation.
Through the Explorer Fellowship, we learnt about the rich and vibrant heritage of India. It helped us to see the India from a survivor’s point of view, explore a magnificent country with friends. The concept of not savouring, but tasting new experiences is great. The EF also taught us time management, people skills, ground research, contacting officials, etc.
