The National Handicraft Award was recently presented to two women from West Bengal, honoring their exceptional contribution to the development of Madur floor mats. This award represents one of the highest accolades an artisan in India can receive for their craft.
The Prestigious Shilp Guru Award and Other National Recognitions
Among the topmost awards for handicraft artisans in India are the Shilp Guru Award, National Award, and National Certificate of Excellence. These honors are bestowed by none other than the President of India. The Shilp Guru Award, which has been awarded since its institution in 2002, is the highest-ranking award in the domain of handicrafts. It is presented to artisans over the age of 50, with a minimum of 20 years of experience in their field.
The National Award and the National Certificate of Excellence were instituted in 1965 and 1967 respectively. Both recognize outstanding contributions to the development of Indian crafts. The National Award is given to craftspeople over the age of 30, who have at least 10 years of experience in the field. The National Certificate of Excellence appreciates master craftspeople over 30, who have completed 10 years in their field, for their exceptional work, efforts to promote their craft, and their skill level.
Madur Floor Mats: Craftsmanship and Tradition
Known as Madur mats or Madhurkathi in Bengali, these mats are made of natural fibers and form a crucial part of the Bengali lifestyle. In April 2018, the Geographical Indication (GI) tag was granted to this craft by the Indian GI Registry.
The material for these mats is sourced from a rhizome-based plant, either Cyperus tegetum or Cyperus pangorei, which is found abundantly in the alluvial tracts of Purba and Paschim Medinipur in West Bengal. The production process includes intricate weaving of the plant fibers, culminating in a robust yet beautiful Madur mat.
Other Recognized Crafts from Bengal
Bengal is home to many other crafts that have received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This list includes items like the Wooden Mask of Kushmandi, Purulia Chau Mask, Gobindobhog Rice, Tulapanji Rice, Darjeeling Tea, and Bengal Patachitra. These items, much like the Madur mats, represent the rich and diverse craft culture of the region. Each piece is unique and embodies the Bengali tradition of excellence in craftsmanship.
These awards and recognitions not only serve to highlight the skills and dedication of the artisans but also play a pivotal role in promoting and preserving the age-old traditions and crafts of India. They validate the significant cultural and economic value these arts bring to our society and pave the way for future generations of craftspeople.
