What is Bidriware?

About Bidriware:

• It is a form of metal handicraft that has Persian influences and has been made for centuries by artisans from Karnataka’s Bidar district.
• It is renowned for its intricate, handcrafted designs.
• Origin:
  • The origin of Bidriware as a craft is attributed mostly to the Bahamani Sultans who ruled the region during the 14th and 15th centuries.
  • It was first brought to India by the noted Sufi Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chisti in the form of utensils.
  • The art form developed in the kingdom was a mix of Turkish, Persian and Arabic influences, which were intermingled with the local styles, and thus a unique style of its own was born.
• This native art form has obtained a Geographical Indications (GI) registry.
• Bidar in Karnataka and Hyderabad in Telangana are the most vibrant centers of Bidriware.
• How is Bidriware made? 
  • Bidri Ware is manufactured from an alloy of copper and zinc (in the ratio 1:16) by casting. 
  • The zinc content gives the alloy a deep black colour.
  • The craftsman uses small chisels to engrave the design over the freehand etching.
  • Fine wire or flattened strips of pure silver are then carefully hammered into these grooves. 
  • A special variety of soil, which is available only in the unlit portions of the Bidar fort, is used for the final blackening process. It is mixed with ammonium chloride and water to produce a paste, which is then rubbed onto a heated Bidri surface. The paste selectively darkens the body while it has no effect on the silver inlay.
  • The product then undergoes a process called buffing to smoothen the surface.

Q1) What is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. In order to function as a GI, a sign must identify a product as originating in a given place. In India, GI tags are issued as per the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act,1999. This tag is issued by the Geographical Indication Registry under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Source: PM Modi Gifts Bidri Work Pair Of 'Surahi' To South African President