The famous silver statue (Rupa Tarakasi) of Odisha’s millennium Cuttack city has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Chennai-based Geographical Indication Registry, giving the people of the state an opportunity to celebrate.
Expressing his happiness, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted: “It is an honor for Odisha to get GI tag for Cuttack’s silver (Chandi Tarakasi). The centuries-old sophisticated craft prevalent in the sliver city of Cuttack gives our state a distinct identity for its intricate workmanship. On this occasion, I convey my good wishes to the people of Odisha, especially the Cuttack and district administration.”
Odisha State Co-operative Handicrafts Corporation Limited (Utkalika) had filed an application, seeking GI tag for framed silver filigree from Cuttack, on July 1, 2021. Applicants pointed to the art’s historical association with the region and how it has developed. ,
Rupa Tarakasi is one of the most exquisite silver sculptures. In this act of craft, silver bricks are converted into thin fine wires (Tara) or foil, creating silver filigree all over with designs (Kasi).
GI researcher Anita Sabat told The Telegraph: “The Cuttack Tarakasi represents both silver and gold work. The state government should make a fresh application with correct updates and seek GI tag for Cuttack Tarakasi (gold and silver filigree).
