Tripura’s Traditional Musical Instrument Sarinda Receives GI Tag Recognition

Tripura’s traditional musical instrument Sarinda recognized as the Geographical Indication (GI) tag and it shows the state’s another milestone to preserve the rich cultural heritage. This recognition highlights the unique craftsmanship and the cultural importance of the instrument which has been an integral part of the folk traditions of the Tripura’s indigenous communities for generations.

The GI tag is expected to strengthen the efforts to preserve the instrument, support local artisans and promote the Tripura’s cultural identity at national and international levels.

Tripura Sarinda Receives GI Tag

Respectable Chief Minister Manik Saha has announced that Tripura Sarinda has been awarded the Geographical Indication status.

He described the achievement as a proud moment for the state’s cultural heritage and it is a significant step towards to preserving and promoting indigenous folk traditions.

This recognition acknowledges the instrument’s unique association with the Tripura and it safeguards the its identity against unauthorized imitation or any misuse.

About Tripura Sarinda

Tripura Sarinda is the traditional bowed string musical instrument that is widely used in the folk music traditions of the state’s tribal communities.

It is handcrafted from a single block of wood and it features a hollow resonator that produces the its distinctive sound.

The instrument is played using the bow and is commonly used during the folk performances, cultural ceremonies and traditional musical expressions.

Its design, craftsmanship and musical style have been passed down through multiple generations and making it as an important symbol of indigenous cultural heritage.

Cultural Significance of Sarinda

The Sarinda occupies the special place in the cultural life of Tripura’s indigenous communities.

It serves not only as just musical instrument but also as a medium for to preserving oral traditions, folklore and cultural narratives.

The instrument is closely associated with the traditional celebrations, community gatherings and folk performances and it showcases the rich artistic heritage of the region.

The GI recognition is expected to encourage the younger generations to learn and preserve this traditional art form.

What is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is the intellectual property right that are granted to products which possess the specific qualities, characteristics or a reputation linked to a particular geographical region.

The GI registration system in India is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

The registration and protection of the GI products are administered by the Geographical Indications Registry which is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

The GI tag helps to protect traditional products from unauthorized use and it ensures that only genuine producers from the designated geographical area can market the product under the its registered name.

Tripura’s Growing GI Portfolio

With the inclusion of the Sarinda, Tripura now has four GI-tagged products.

Tripura’s previously recognized GI products includes the,

• Tripura Queen Pineapple
• Risha/Pachra (Rignai), the traditional attire of indigenous tribal communities
• Matabari Peda
• Tripura Sarinda

These recognitions showcase the state’s rich cultural diversity and the traditional knowledge systems.