In a significant recognition of its rich heritage in craftsmanship, Miraj, a small town in Maharashtra’s Sangli district, has been awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tags for its sitars and tanpuras. These traditional musical instruments, crafted by skilled artisans over generations, have garnered acclaim from classical musicians and Bollywood artists.
The GI tag signifies that these instruments originate from Miraj, enhancing their commercial value and authenticity. The town boasts a legacy spanning over 300 years, with craftsmen passing down their expertise through seven generations.
On March 30, the Bharatiya government’s intellectual property office granted GI tags to the Miraj Musical Instruments Cluster for sitars and to the Soultune Musical Instrument Producer firm for tanpuras. The Miraj Musical Instruments Cluster, serving as the apex body for both instruments, comprises more than 450 artisans dedicated to their craft.
Despite local demand, resources in Miraj are limited, leading to the alleged sale of non-Miraj-made instruments under false pretenses. Responding to complaints, the cluster pursued the GI tag, culminating in its recent success.
Materials for crafting sitars and tanpuras are sourced from specific regions; wood comes from Karnataka’s forests, while pumpkin gourds are obtained from Maharashtra’s Solapur district.
Miraj-made instruments are highly sought-after, with a monthly production of 60 to 70 sitars and around 100 tanpuras. Sales primarily occur through retail stores, direct customers, and online platforms, with notable clientele including renowned classical singers and Bollywood artists.
The tradition of instrument-making in Miraj traces back to the Adilshahi period, when skilled workers transitioned from weapon-making to crafting musical instruments. Patronage from the princely state of Miraj nurtured this art, leading to its continued legacy.
The history of tanpura-making in Miraj dates back over 200 years, marked by an incident where skilled workers successfully repaired a tanpura for a visiting classical singer. This event spurred the establishment of an industry for musical instrument production in Miraj.
The recent award of GI tags is expected to propel Miraj onto the global stage, providing long-overdue recognition to its craftsmen. Plans to establish a training and research center for musical instrument-making underscore the commitment to preserving this heritage.
However, despite the economic viability of instrument-making, artisans face challenges in receiving adequate compensation for their labor. To sustain this craft and ensure fair wages for skilled workers, support from the government and the community at large is crucial.
In conclusion, the GI tags awarded to Miraj’s sitars and tanpuras mark a significant milestone in preserving and promoting the town’s rich cultural heritage. With continued support, Miraj’s artisans can thrive, ensuring the legacy of their craftsmanship endures for generations to come.
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