GI application filed for Naikpod tribal masks

Telangana’s distinctive Naikpod tribal arts and crafts are poised for national recognition, with an application filed for Geographical Indication (GI) registration filed on Tuesday.

The single-class application, covering traditional Naikpod masks under Class 20 (Select Goods Type), was submitted by Subhajit Saha, CEO of Resolute IP Services LLP. If approved, the GI tag will mark the 29th such recognition for Telangana.

Naikpod arts and crafts are celebrated for their vibrant designs, intricate motifs, and eco-friendly production methods. Artisans primarily use locally sourced bamboo, wood, and natural dyes, creating pieces that are both artistically significant and environmentally sustainable. Each handcrafted item reflects the Naikpod community’s ancestral traditions, spiritual beliefs, and deep connection with nature, underscoring the craft’s importance as part of India’s intangible cultural heritage.

P. Anjan Kumar, president of the Naikpod Tribal Arts and Crafts Society, said, “The GI registration will be a turning point for our community. It will not only protect our art and culture, which have sadly been overlooked in modern times, but also help ensure their transmission to future generations.”