Balurghat, Nov. 1 -- A traditional craft deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Dinajpur region has received a fresh boost, with eight more mask makers from North and South Dinajpur being authorised by the Central government to use the Geographical Indication (GI) tag after a gap of nine years. The recognition has raised hopes among artisans of greater market credibility, improved sales and wider commercial opportunities.

The exact origins of Dinajpur's distinctive wooden masks remain undocumented. However, their association with the traditional Gambhira dance dates back centuries. What once formed an integral part of folk performances and religious rituals has gradually evolved into a popular handicraft, finding buyers among art collectors and home decor enthusiasts across India and abroad.

The first GI recognition came in 2016, when products of the Mahishbathhan Handicraft Cooperative Society received the tag. In 2017, 11 individual artisans were authorised. With eight more added this year, the total has reached 19.

Society founder Paresh Chandra Sarkar said: "The pandemic brought mask production to a halt but artisans gradually returned to their craft. This recognition is a major achievement for our craftsmen."

Made from gamari, neem and mango wood and coloured with natural dyes, the masks are expected to gain greater market credibility through GI certification.

Newly-authorised artisan Jagadish Sarkar said: "I make masks throughout the year and participate in various fairs organised by the state government. Earlier, buyers would question me repeatedly about the absence of GI certification. I hope I will no longer have to face such situations."

Another beneficiary, Ananda Sarkar, said: "This is the age of social media and we receive orders from different places. But many customers were reluctant to purchase our products because we did not have GI recognition. That problem should now be resolved."

Earlier recipient Shankar Das, who has returned from London, highlighted the responsibility accompanying the recognition. "GI certification is a matter of immense pride for an artisan. It also obliges us to maintain the quality of our products. Those making masks must use properly seasoned wood and maintain standards so that buyers receive genuine, quality products," he said.

However, artisan Pradip Sarkar believes the recognition must reach many more craftsmen. "There are more than 150 mask artisans across the two districts but only 19 have been authorised to use the GI tag. Many others are deserving. The government should bring more craftsmen under its ambit to protect both the traditional art and the livelihoods," he said.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.