An application seeking Geographical Indications (GI) tag for the renowned Vandavasi Korai Paai (Vandavasi mats) has been submitted, marking a significant step towards recognising and preserving the unique heritage of this traditional product.

The application was submitted by Vandavasi Kaithemillath Korai Paai Viyabarigal Nala Sangam (Vandavasi Kaithemillath Korai Mat Traders’ Association) and the Patent Information Centre, Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology. It was facilitated by the Department of Biotechnology, Mother Teresa Women’s University, Kodaikanal.

These handcrafted mats are made from the dry grass Cyperus pangorei (referred to as Korai in Tamil). Vandavasi Taluk, located in Tiruvannamalai district, has been home to mat handloom-weaving villages for over a century. Historically, these villages have been known for their skilled handloom-weaving practices. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards the use of powerlooms, with the majority of weaving now done by machine. As a result, only a small number of artisans continue to practise traditional hand weaving and handloom techniques. Korai grass mats, which have gained popularity across the country, are exported to global markets, including Europe, Singapore, and Malaysia.

According to details shared in the GI filing, Vandavasi, Pudhur, Vinayagapuram, and Mecheri are villages located in the Tiruvannamalai district. These villages house approximately 50 industrial units and more than 500 powerlooms. Moreoever, korai grass is cultivated on over 1,000 acres in the surrounding villages of Thennangur, Pudhur, Vadanangur, Purisai, Malaiyittankuppam, Yechur, Vinayagapuram, and Thellur. Nearly 1,000 farming families are engaged in the cultivation of korai grass. In addition to farming, over 500 families contribute to various tasks such as grass grading, dyeing, end-tying, and machine operation within the mat weaving villages. At the villages, around 300 individuals are engaged in the sale of the finished products.