Agartala: Two iconic products from Tripura, namely Mata Bari Peda and Rignai Textile, have been granted Geographical Indications (GI) Tags, marking their unique cultural significance and traditional craftsmanship.
The application for the GI tag for the Tripura Rignai textile was initiated by Dewanbari Mahila Cluster Behumukhi Samabaya Samity Ltd, under the leadership of Padma Buli Jamatia from Udaipur in the Gomati District.
Rignai, a traditional textile of Tripura, is skillfully woven on handlooms. It serves as a long piece of cloth worn as a lower garment by Tripura women, often accompanied by a risa, a shorter cloth covering the upper body.
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Meanwhile, the renowned Peda of Mata Bari, located at the Tripura Sundari Temple, also received the prestigious GI tag. The application for this was filed by Matabari Mahila Cluster Level Bahumukhi Samabaya Samity Ltd, headed by President Baby Das in Udaipur, Gomati District.
Mata Bari Peda is a delectable sweet made from the pindi variety of khoa blended with sugar. Known for its smooth texture and homogenous body, this sweet has a longer shelf life due to its low moisture content. Pedas are not just a culinary delight but also hold religious significance as they are offered as “Prasad” during temple worship.
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The Matabari Peda market is a bustling hub where numerous stores offer this famed delicacy. Despite its appearance resembling regular Pedas made from cow milk and sugar, Matabari Peda stands out for its distinct characteristics.
According to reports from the Geographical Indications Registry, approximately 500 individuals are actively involved in the Peda trade, including shop owners, workers, and helpers.
Women play a crucial role in ensuring the quality of milk production in villages, often forming self-help groups that contribute significantly to the traditional Matabari Peda industry.
These pedas are known for their circular, slightly flattened shape, low moisture content, creamy white colour, and smooth texture, making them a cherished part of Tripura’s cultural heritage.