Patteda Anchu sarees: GI tag brings hope, but weavers need more to sustain the traditional craft

The recent Geographical Indication (GI) tag granted to Patteda Anchhu sarees has been hailed as a significant achievement for Karnataka’s traditional weaving community. However, many weavers argue that while the recognition is important, it is not enough to sustain the craft and improve their livelihoods.

The Patteda Anchhu sarees, known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, have been woven by skilled artisans in various regions of Karnataka for generations. The GI tag is expected to protect the authenticity of these sarees and enhance their value in national and international markets.

Despite this recognition, artisans continue to face challenges such as rising production costs, limited market access, and a lack of adequate support for preserving traditional weaving techniques. Weavers emphasize the need for government and private sector intervention in providing better infrastructure, access to modern technology, and fair wages to sustain the industry.

For the craft to truly thrive, weavers suggest more efforts should be made in promoting the sarees globally, ensuring fair pricing, and offering educational programs to help artisans enhance their skills. Without these crucial steps, the future of Patteda Anchhu sarees remains uncertain, despite the recent recognition.
*This news has been published on The Hindu on 18th April 2025