Kannadippaya

Kannadippaya Latest News

Kannadippaya, a traditional tribal handicraft from Kerala, has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

What is Kannadippaya?

• “Kannadippaya” (meaning ‘mirror mat’) originates from its distinct reflective design.
• It is woven using reed bamboo’s soft inner layers, which give it remarkable thermal properties—it provides warmth in winter and a cooling effect in summer.
• It is primarily crafted by tribal communities such as the Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Malayan, and Kadar tribes, along with Ulladan, Malayarayan, and Hill Pulaya artisans in the Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Palakkad districts.
• The finest Kannadippaya is made from Teinostachyum wightii, locally known by various names such as Njoonjileetta, Njoojoora, Ponneetta, Meieeta, and Neytheetta.
• Other bamboo species, like Ochlandra sp. (locally called Kareetta, Pereetta, Velleeta, Chitoora, and Kanjoora), are also used.
• Kannadippaya is the first tribal handicraft from Kerala to receive a GI tag.

Kannadippaya FAQs

Q1. What is Kannadippaya?
Ans. Kannadippaya is a traditional handwoven mat made from screw pine leaves in Kerala, India. It is a significant part of Kerala’s handicrafts and cultural heritage.

Q2. Where is Kannadippaya primarily made?
Ans. Kannadippaya is mainly produced in Kerala, particularly in coastal regions where screw pine plants grow abundantly.

Q3. What are the uses of Kannadippaya?
Ans. It is used as a sleeping mat, floor covering, and decorative piece, and is also woven into eco-friendly bags and household items.

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Q4. Why is Kannadippaya considered an eco-friendly product?
Ans. It is made from natural materials, involves zero synthetic components, and is biodegradable, making it environmentally friendly.

Source: TH