Miraj's Sitar and Tanpura receive coveted GI Tags

Tags: State News

The Geographical Indications Registry awarded GI tags to Miraj town in Maharashtra for its sitars and tanpuras.

An Overview of the News

Craftsmanship and Tradition:

• Sitars and tanpuras made in Miraj are known for their craftsmanship and have a tradition dating back more than 300 years.

• Over seven generations of craftsmen have contributed to the production of these string instruments.

GI Tag Issuance:

• The Miraj Musical Instruments Cluster and Soultune Musical Instrument Producer firm received GI tags for sitars and tanpuras, respectively.

• More than 450 craftsmen are involved in manufacturing musical instruments under the Miraj Musical Instruments Cluster.

Raw Materials and Production:

• Wood for sitars and tanpuras is sourced from Karnataka forests, while pumpkin gourds are obtained from Maharashtra's Solapur district.

• The cluster manufactures around 60 to 70 sitars and 100 tanpuras per month.

Clientele and Recognition:

• Well-known classical singers and founders of the Kirana gharana, such as Ustad Abdul Karim Khan Saheb and Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, have used Miraj-made instruments.

• Artists from the film industry, including Javed Ali, Hariharan, and A R Rahman, are also patrons.

Historical Origin:

• The art of making musical instruments in Miraj dates back to the Adilshahi period when skilled workers transitioned from weapon-making to instrument craftsmanship.

Economic Viability and Recognition:

• The GI tag is expected to enhance the global recognition of Miraj-made instruments and benefit craftsmen.

• Despite the viability of instrument making, skilled workers often face challenges in receiving adequate returns for their labor.