Gharcholas Saree
05-12-2024
09:31 AM
1 min read

Overview:
Recently, Gujarat’s ‘Gharcholas’ received the Geographical Indication tag.
About Gharcholas Saree:
- It is also known as Ghatchola and Gharcholu which has finest bandhani work of Gujarat
- It has traditionally been used for years in Gujarati weddings.
- The name ‘Gharchola’ means ‘Outfit for Home’, which symbolizes a newly wedded bride joining her new home.
- Features
- It is woven on Cotton or Silk fabric in large checks of using Silk and Zari threads.
- This is further colored in Bandhani or tie & dye technique. These checkered patterns are filled with small golden motifs of peacocks, lotus, human figures, and floral designs.
- These are traditionally crafted in auspicious colours such as red, maroon, green, and yellow, which hold special significance in Hindu customs.
- A Gharchola Saree with 12 squares is known as ‘Bar Bagh’, while the one with 52 squares is known as ‘Bavan Bagh’.
- The designs often incorporate symbols of fertility and prosperity, such as the kalash and the paan.
- In recent times weavers are infusing modern designs and techniques into their gharcholas, blending tradition with contemporary appeal.
- Gharchola saris are sourced from generational clusters of artisans in Gujarat, who have been preserving and passing down this intricate craft for centuries.
- This is the 27th GI tag that Gujarat has received.

Q1: What is Geographical Indications (GI tag)?
These are signs used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess distinctive qualities, reputation, or characteristics attributable to that place of origin. GI tags serve as intellectual property rights that identify a product's unique geographical source, providing legal protection and preventing unauthorised use.