Unique Silver Filigree Work of Cuttack Gets GI Tag

Cuttack: The unique silver filigree work of Cuttack also known as Rupa Tarakasi or Chandi Tarakasi received the GI tag from the Chennai-based Geographical Indication Registry on Saturday.

Now Odisha GI list has gone up to 26. The Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Ltd (UTKALIKA) in 2021 sought the GI tag for the famed silver filigree of Cuttack.

In the application for the GI tag, it was mentioned that origin of this unique filigree tradition can be traced to 13th century.  ‘Tarakasi’ or ‘Silver Filigree‘ is one of the most exquisite silver craft. Using it, several items ranging from jewellery, including those worn by Odissi dancers, or decorative artefacts, to models of Jagannath temple, Konark temple and Mukteshwar arch are made.

During Durga Puja tableaus in Cuttack are decorated by intricate silver filigree work.

In January 2024 seven products of Odisha received the GI tag. They were – Odisha Khajuri Guda, Dhenkanal Magji, Similipal Kai Chutney of Odisha, Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal, Kapadaganda: Dungaria Kondh Embroidery Shawl, Koraput Kalajeera Rice, and Painting of Lanjia Saura (Idital).