Pattamadai pai (mat) is the GI-registered product of Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. Pattamadai mat is famous worldwide for its unique features like softness, flexibility, and health benefits like cooling the body. The mat is made from a local variety of grass called ‘Korai’ grass, which grows naturally on the banks of the Tamirabarani River. The mat got GI registered in the year 2013.
The history of Pattamadai mat dates to more than 200 years. The local Muslim community called Labbais has been involved in this mat weaving for centuries. This being a handmade mat, most of them are hand-woven by women in the household. Initially the entire household was involved in the weaving process. Now, women are involved in manufacturing and men are involved in the marketing process. The mat plays an important role in the life of a Hindu. The mat is considered auspicious in most of the Hindu rituals like engagement, marriage etc. The mat has a worldwide reputation and was gifted to notable personalities like Queen Elizabeth.
There are around 300 families involved in the mat manufacturing. Most of them are home-based units. It takes around 15 days to complete a single mat. The cost of the mat varies depending on the size and design
Some interesting facts about Pattamadai mats:
- Pattamadai mats have been made for centuries in the village of Pathamadai.
- The mats are made from the reeds of the Cynodon dactylon plant, which is also known as Bermuda grass.
- The process of making Pattamadai mats is a complex one and takes several days.
- Pattamadai mats are known for their durability and their beautiful designs.
- The mats are typically geometric in design and feature a variety of colors, including red, yellow, green, and blue.
- Pattamadai mats were awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Government of India in 2010. A GI tag is a certification that is given to products that are grown or made in a specific geographical area and have a unique quality or characteristic that is attributed to that geographical area.
- The GI tag for Pattamadai mats ensures that only mats made in the village of Pattamadai can be sold as Pattamadai mats. This protects the reputation of the product and helps to ensure that consumers are getting genuine Pathamadai mats.
Pattamadai mats are a unique and special product of the village of Pattamadai. They are a valuable source of income for the villagers and are also a popular tourist attraction.
Why are they special?
Pattamadai mats are special for several reasons:
- They are made from natural materials. Pattamadai mats are made from the reeds of the Cynodon dactylon plant, which is a natural and sustainable material.
- They are handcrafted. Pattamadai mats are woven by hand using traditional techniques. This makes each mat unique and special.
- They are durable. Pattamadai mats are known for their durability. They can last for many years, even with heavy use.
- They are beautiful. Pattamadai mats are available in a variety of colors and designs. They can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any home.
- They are eco-friendly. Pattamadai mats are an eco-friendly choice. They are made from natural materials and they do not produce any harmful emissions.
Why is it given a GI Tag?
Pattamadai mats are a Geographical Indication (GI) tagged product because they have a unique quality or characteristic that is attributed to their geographical area. The mats made in the village of Pattamadai in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, India have a distinct texture, design, and durability that is due to the unique climatic and geographical conditions of the region.
The reeds of the Cynodon dactylon plant, which is also known as Bermuda grass, that are used to make Pathamadai mats are grown in the fertile soil of the Pattamadai region. The mats are also woven by skilled artisans using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations.
The GI tag for Pattamadai mats ensures that only mats made in the village of Pattamadai can be sold as Pattamadai mats. This protects the reputation of the product and helps to ensure that consumers are getting genuine Pattamadai mats.
The GI tag has also helped to promote the cultivation of the Cynodon dactylon plant and to increase the income of farmers in the Pattamadai region.
Pattamadai mats are a unique and special product of the village of Pattamadai. They are a valuable source of income for the villagers and are also a popular tourist attraction.
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