The footwear industry in Agra, with roots dating back to the Mughal era, has grown to become one of the most significant contributors to India’s leather market. Known for its intricate craftsmanship and rich history, Agra boasts the largest footwear manufacturing cluster in the country, creating products that are not only cherished within India but…
The Chulli, or wild apricot (Prunus armeniaca z.), holds a significant place in the agricultural and cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. Found in the high-altitude districts of Shimla, Mandi, Kullu, Chamba, Sirmour, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti, wild apricots thrive under extreme conditions, with trees flourishing even at altitudes of 11,000 feet in Spiti Valley. The ability…
In 2014, Kannauj’s traditional Attar earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, cementing the region’s legacy as one of India’s oldest and most prestigious centers for perfume production. Located in Uttar Pradesh, Kannauj has been synonymous with the art of attar-making for thousands of years. The perfume crafted here is unique for its purity, as it…
The vibrant city of Meerut, with its rich history and culture, is renowned for an unexpected product—scissors. These unique, high-quality scissors have been crafted in Meerut since the 17th century, with their origin dating back to 1645. According to local legends, a blacksmith named Akhunji first combined two swords to cut leather, marking the creation…
Mysuru’s “Sandalwood Oil” is internationally acclaimed for its unmatched quality, earning it the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Often referred to as “Liquid Gold,” this oil is known for its consistent quality and characteristic fragrance, making it one of the finest sandalwood oils in the world. It has even been labeled the “Fragrant Ambassador of…
Nainital, a picturesque town in Uttarakhand, has long been famous for its intricately crafted candles. Known for their vibrant colors, diverse shapes, and elegant designs, these candles have become an iconic souvenir for tourists visiting the region. In recognition of their unique craftsmanship, Nainital candles were awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which not only…
Rasabali, a mouth-watering delicacy from Odisha, traces its origins to the 262-year-old Baladevjew Temple in Ichhapur, on the outskirts of Kendrapara. This temple, constructed during the Maratha rule in 1761, is not just a place of worship but also a culinary treasure trove. Rasabali, one of the primary offerings (Bhog) at the shrine, has become…
Located about 300 kilometers from Bhubaneswar, Gajapati district is home to an abundance of date palm trees that grow on its picturesque hillsides. The Soura Tribals have been harvesting these trees for generations, producing jaggery using age-old techniques passed down through the community. This cottage industry, supported by the Odisha Rajya Talgur Samabaya Sangha Ltd…
Kovilpatti Kadalai Mittai, the beloved traditional snack made from groundnuts and jaggery, has officially received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, a recognition that highlights its uniqueness and ties to the region of Kovilpatti in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district. This GI tag comes at an opportune moment, as the cottage industry producing this sweet delicacy…
Dhenkanal Magji, a unique sweet crafted from buffalo milk cheese, has been officially recognized with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant achievement for Odisha’s rich culinary heritage. This delightful sweet, known for its distinct characteristics in appearance, taste, and flavor, is a cherished delicacy that stands apart from other cheese-based confections. Made by…