The famous silver filigree (Rupa Tarakasi) of the millennium Cuttack city in Odisha has received the geographical indication (GI) tag from the Chennai-based Geographical Indications Registry, giving an occasion for the people of the state to celebrate.
Expressing his happiness, chief minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted: “It’s a matter of honour for Odisha to get the GI tag for Cuttack’s silver filigree (Chandi Tarakasi). The centuries-old sophisticated craft practiced in the sliver city of Cuttack gives a distinct identity to our state for its intricate workmanship. On this occasion, I extend my best wishes to the people of Odisha, especially Cuttack and the district administration.”
The Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Ltd (Utkalika) had filed an application, seeking the GI tag for the framed silver filigree of Cuttack on July 1, 2021. The applicants had pointed out the historical linkage of the art to the region and how it flourished.
Rupa Tarakasi is one of the most exquisite silver crafts. In this work of craft, silver bricks are transformed into thin fine wires (tara) or foils, from which silver filigree is made with all designs (kasi).
GI researcher Anita Sabat told The Telegraph: “The Cuttack Tarakasi represents the work of both silver and gold. The state government should make a fresh application with correct updates and ask for the GI tag for Cuttack Tarakasi (gold and silver filigree).”