Kannadippaya, a traditional handwoven tribal mat from Kerala, was awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This makes it first tribal handicraft from state to earn this prestigious recognition. It symbolizes Kerala’s rich tribal heritage, eco-conscious design, and centuries-old craftsmanship.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Product | Kannadippaya (Mirror Mat) |
| Origin | Kerala – Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam & Palakkad districts |
| Made By | Tribal communities like Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Malayan, Kadar, Ulladan, Malayarayan, Hill Pulaya |
| Significance | First tribal handicraft from Kerala to get GI tag |
About Kannadippaya – The ‘Mirror Mat’
| Attribute | Description |
| Name Meaning | Kannadi = Mirror, Paya = Mat → “Mirror Mat”, due to its reflective woven patterns |
| Thermal Properties | Naturally warm in winters and cool in summers |
| Material | Made from soft inner layers of reed bamboo, mainly Teinostachyum wightii (local names: Njoojiletta, Njoojoora, Neytheetta) |
| Flexibility | Can be rolled into bamboo cylinders < 10 cm diameter |
| Craft Time | Over 1 month to handweave a 6-ft mat |
| Collection Ritual | Bamboo is traditionally collected on full moon day through an overnight forest trip |
| Unique Trait | Reflective pattern, thermal comfort, high flexibility |
| Eco-Friendly | 100% biodegradable and aligns with global sustainability values |
Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Ancestral Craft: Practiced by Kerala’s tribal artisans for centuries
- Gifted to PM Indira Gandhi: During the 1976 inauguration of Idukki Dam
- Craft Revitalization: GI tag will help sustain tribal livelihoods and preserve the endangered art form