Karuppur kalamkari paintings, Kallakurichi wood carvings get GI tags

Context

In Tamil Nadu, Kaluppur kalamkari paintings and Kallakurichi wood paintings recently received geographical indication (GI) tags.

Kalamkari paintings emerged under the rule of the Nayaka emperors in the early 17th century.
Kalamkari means to create something with a 'kalam', or brush.
Kalamkari paintings are made of white cotton cloth, which is widely used in temples for umbrella covers, circular curtains, chariot covers and asmanagiri (pieces of false roof fabric).
Design: These designs are carefully made from cotton fabric using pens or brushes made of bamboo and coconut tree trunks.
Color: Traditionally, only three colors are used - black, red, and yellow. But recently, ‘Pale blue’ has also come into use.
Location: Kalamkari paintings are done in Karuppur and its surrounding villages in the Udayarpalayam taluk in Ariyalur district, and in and around Sickhanayakanpatti and Thirupanandal in Thiruvidaimaruthur taluk, Thanjavur district.

Kallakurichi wood carving is a unique method of wood carving which involves the use of decoration and designs, found in traditional styles by artisans.
Wood carving is actually one where artists specialize in carving objects related to the temple and furniture, using traditional designs.
Location: Kallakurichi wood carvings are made mainly in Kallakurichi, Chinnaselam and Tharukkovilur taluks in the Kallakurichi region.
Emergence: The skill of carving came to light as a traditional art form in which Madurai was an important city under various royal empires in ancient times.

Geographical Indication (GI) is a name or mark given to a particular product related to a particular place or origin such as a region, city, or country.
Using a Geographical Index can be considered as a certificate that a product is produced in a traditional way, has certain characteristics, or has a certain reputation due to its geographical origin.
Landmarks are often used for wine and spirits, food, agricultural products, handicrafts, and industrial products.
GI Tag ensures that none other than those registered as authorized users are allowed to use the popular brand name. In order to function as a GI, the marker must identify the product as coming from a given location.
The GI tag in India is governed by the Property Registration (Registration and Protection) Assets Act, 1999. Issued by the Geographical Indications Registry (Chennai).