Patna, June 14: Bihar has achieved a significant milestone with three of its traditional products receiving Geographical Indication (GI) tags. The products include Nalanda’s Bawan Booti, Gaya’s Pattharkatti stone craft, and Bhojpur’s Pidhia painting. This recognition has filled the state’s artisans, weavers, and rural producers with pride.
Former Chief Minister and JDU National President Nitish Kumar expressed his happiness about this achievement on social media platform X. He stated, “It is a matter of joy that Nalanda’s Bawan Booti sarees and fabrics, Gaya’s Pattharkatti stone craft, and Bhojpur’s Pidhia painting have received GI tags.”
Kumar emphasized that the GI tag would enhance the authenticity and unique identity of these products. It will also elevate Bihar’s rich cultural heritage on both national and international platforms. He extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all artisans, weavers, artists, and related organizations for this accomplishment.
Meanwhile, JDU National Executive President Sanjay Kumar Jha also expressed his delight over this achievement. He noted that the GI tags for Bhojpur’s Pidhia painting, Gaya’s Pattharkatti stone craft, and Nalanda’s renowned Bawan Booti sarees and fabrics are a rightful recognition of the skills, creativity, and traditions preserved by artisans over generations.
Jha stated that this recognition would strengthen the identity of Bihar’s unique handicrafts and handloom products, opening new avenues for livelihood, entrepreneurship, and global recognition. Nalanda’s famous Bawan Booti is a unique example of Bihar’s ancient weaving tradition.
This distinctive textile art involves weaving 52 types of traditional Buddhist and cultural motifs (booti) onto fabric using handlooms. The stone craft from Pattharkatti village in Gaya has been renowned for its excellence for nearly 300 years. Artisans here create sculptures of Lord Buddha, Lord Mahavir, deities, and other artistic figures from local black granite stones.
Bhojpur’s Pidhia painting is a unique style of folk art in Bihar, primarily created by women during traditional festivals and social occasions. This art vividly depicts rural life, family relationships, religious beliefs, and village culture through natural colors and traditional symbols.
Leave a Comment