Bangladesh is a country that is known for its rich cultural heritage and its diverse range of high-quality products. Recently, Bangladesh has achieved a significant milestone by securing Geographical Indication (GI) tag for nine of its most popular and unique products. These products are highly valued for their distinctive qualities, and the GI tag is a recognition of the geographical origin and traditional knowledge involved in their production.
In this blog, we will explore the nine GI tagged products of Bangladesh and their significance in the country’s economy and culture.
| Product Name | Type | District |
|---|---|---|
| J’amdani’ | Handloom fabric | Dhaka, Narayanganj |
| Hilsa | Fish | N/A |
| Khirsapati Mango | Fruit | Chapainawabganj |
| Dhakai Muslin | Cotton fabric | Dhaka |
| Rajshahi Silk | Silk fabric | Rajshahi |
| Kalojira Rice | Rice | Northern region of Bangladesh |
| Kataribhog | Rice | Dinajpur |
| Sadamati | Rice | Kushtia |
| Sataranji | Woven mat | Netrokona |
J’amdani’
J’amdani’ is a traditional handloom fabric that is highly valued for its intricate designs and delicate texture. The fabric is made using cotton and silk threads, and the production process involves a unique technique of weaving that has been passed down through generations of weavers in Dhaka and Narayanganj. J’amdani’ was awarded GI tag in 2016, recognizing its uniqueness and cultural significance.
Hilsa
Hilsa, also known as ilish, is a popular fish in Bangladesh that is highly prized for its rich and distinctive flavor. The fish is a staple in Bengali cuisine and is an essential part of festivals and celebrations. Hilsa was awarded GI tag in 2017, recognizing the traditional fishing techniques and the importance of the fish in the country’s culture and economy.
Khirsapati Mango of Chapainawabganj
Mango is one of the most popular fruits in Bangladesh, and the Khirsapati mango of Chapainawabganj is renowned for its exceptional taste and aroma. The mangoes are grown using traditional techniques in the northwestern region of the country, and the GI tag recognizes their unique qualities and the importance of the mango in the local economy.
Dhakai Muslin
Dhakai Muslin is a fine cotton fabric that is known for its delicate texture and intricate designs. The fabric was once highly prized in the international market, and it was used to make clothes for royalty and nobility. The production of Dhakai Muslin declined in the 19th century, but in recent years, there has been a revival of the traditional weaving techniques. The GI tag for Dhakai Muslin recognizes the cultural and historical significance of the fabric and the traditional knowledge involved in its production.
Rajshahi Silk
Rajshahi Silk is a luxurious fabric that is made using traditional techniques in the Rajshahi district of Bangladesh. The silk is known for its soft texture and rich colors, and it is often used to make high-end garments and accessories. The GI tag for Rajshahi Silk recognizes the traditional techniques involved in its production and the importance of the silk in the local economy.
Kalojira Rice
Kalojira Rice, also known as Black Seed Rice, is a unique variety of rice that is grown in the northern region of Bangladesh. The rice is highly valued for its distinctive aroma and flavor, and it is often used to make traditional dishes. The GI tag for Kalojira Rice recognizes the unique qualities of the rice and the traditional techniques involved in its cultivation.
Kataribhog in Dinajpur
Kataribhog is a variety of rice that is grown in the Dinajpur district of Bangladesh. The rice is known for its aromatic flavor and is often used to make traditional dishes. The GI tag for Kataribhog recognizes the traditional techniques involved in its cultivation and the importance of the rice in the local economy.
Sadamati
Sadamati is a variety of rice that is grown in the Kushtia district of Bangladesh. The rice is known for its long and slender grain and is often used to make traditional dishes. The GI tag for Sadamati recognizes the unique qualities of the rice and the traditional techniques involved in its cultivation.
Sataranji in Vijaypur (Netrokona)
Sataranji is a type of traditional woven mat that is made in the Vijaypur region of Netrokona district. The mats are known for their durability and intricate designs, and they are often used in households and for religious ceremonies. The GI tag for Sataranji recognizes the traditional weaving techniques involved in its production and the importance of the mats in the local culture.
In conclusion, the nine GI tagged products of Bangladesh are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. These products are highly valued for their unique qualities and play an essential role in the country’s economy and culture. The GI tag not only recognizes the geographical origin of the products but also ensures their protection and promotes their growth in the future. As Bangladesh continues to preserve and promote its traditional knowledge and products, these GI tagged products will continue to be a source of pride for the country and its people.
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