THRISSUR: The traditional ‘Kannadippaya’, a handcrafted mat woven by indigenous tribes of Kerala, has been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a historic first for a tribal product from the state.

The mat is meticulously woven by tribal groups including the Uralis, Mannans, Muthuvans, and Kadar, mainly through two cooperatives in Idukki: the Unarvu Scheduled Tribe Multipurpose Cooperative Society (Palaplav, Kanjikuzhy panchayat) and Vanashree Bamboo Craft and Forest Resource Unit (Uppukunnu, Moolakkad). A total of 35 artisans, with at least seven active weavers, carry forward this living tradition.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan unveiled the GI tag and official logo at the state-level SC/ST convergence meet in Malampuzha. The GI certificate was handed to Unarvu SHG Secretary Kannappan, member Neeli, and Vanashree SHG members Sunil and Ambuja.

A product of over six years of effort led by the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) in Peechi, the GI recognition celebrates the craft’s cultural and geographical roots. Though based in Idukki, Kannadippaya weaving also flourishes in tribal pockets of Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Palakkad.

What sets it apart is the use of “njunjaleeta” or “meiyetta”, a rare bamboo-like reed harvested after 1.5 years. The result is a foldable, glossy, highly durable mat that lasts up to 10 years and provides natural cooling. Measuring 6×4 feet, each mat takes nearly a month to complete and can cost around ₹30,000. Custom craft items like clocks, vases, and trays are also made, priced over ₹1,000 per sq ft.