Ahmedabad’s 400-Year-Old Matani Pechedi Gets GI Tag, Boosts Artisan Community

Ahmedabad: In a significant boost to India’s traditional crafts, the 400-year-old textile art Matani Pechedi has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The recognition formally establishes it as a unique cultural and intellectual property of the Ahmedabad district, ensuring legal protection and economic benefits for local artisans.

Often described as a symbol of “Vocal for Local”, Matani Pechedi reflects Gujarat’s rich heritage and the resilience of its artisan communities. The craft, deeply rooted in devotion, originated centuries ago when certain communities were denied entry into temples. In response, they transformed simple cotton cloth into portable shrines, depicting goddess figures and sacred motifs, allowing worship to continue beyond temple walls.

Living Tradition Of Faith

The term ‘Matani Pechedi’ translates to “cloth placed behind the goddess”. These hand-painted textiles serve as sacred backdrops for worship, effectively creating a “temple” in open spaces. At the centre is the depiction of Adyashakti Mata, surrounded by local deities such as Meldi Mata and Sikotri Mata, reflecting regional beliefs and traditions.

Artisans continue to use natural dyes and age-old techniques. Black is derived from iron rust and jaggery, while red comes from alum and majith roots. When crafted into large canopies, the artwork is known as Mata no Chandarvo, used during religious ceremonies.

Global Recognition And Legacy

The craft has long enjoyed international attention. A historic Chandarvo made in Ahmedabad in 1890 is now housed at the Vienna Museum, while a 19th-century Pechedi from Jambusar is preserved at the National Gallery of Austria. Globally, such works are often referred to as “Temple Hangings”.

Scholars like Eberhard Fischer, Jyotindra Jain and Haku Shah have played a key role in documenting and promoting the craft internationally.

GI Tag Brings Protection And Opportunity

The GI tag has been secured through the efforts of Gujarat Council on Science and Technology. This recognition ensures that only artisans from the region can commercially produce authentic Matani Pechedi, safeguarding it from imitation and misuse.

For the 70 to 80 artisan families preserving this tradition, the development marks a turning point. It not only protects their livelihood but also strengthens Ahmedabad’s identity as a hub of heritage crafts, often referred to as the ‘Manchester of the East’.

A Tribute To Devotion And Craftsmanship

Beyond legal recognition, the honour celebrates generations of artisans, along with Bhuvas and Jagarias, who have sustained this tradition through faith and creativity. Their work stands today as a powerful blend of spirituality, history and art, now firmly placed on the global cultural map.