Preserving Jharkhand's Musical Heritage: GI Tag for Mandar

Ranchi- Jharkhand's traditional musical instrument, Mandar, may soon receive a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The final hearing for the tag is scheduled for December 20 before the Registrar of Geographical Indications, Government of India.

The GI tag would recognize Mandar as a unique cultural and intellectual property of India on the global stage. Mandar, a percussion instrument made from red clay, holds a special place in Jharkhand's cultural heritage. It is played during festivals, crop celebrations, religious rituals, and cultural events, deeply integrated into the lives of both tribal and non-tribal communities, having been used for centuries in various dance and song performances.

The GI tag was claimed in 2023 by the Mandar Producer Company from Jarjatta village, Raidih block, Gumla district. The initiative was spearheaded by the then Deputy Commissioner of Gumla, Sushant Gaurav, and is currently being overseen by Deputy Commissioner, Karna Satyarthi.

Sources indicate Jharkhand's claim has met most required parameters in previous hearings.

"Mandar is unique, with no similar replica found in any other region or country," said Nandlal Nayak, a renowned folk artist from Jharkhand. Jarjatta village, renowned for its Mandar craftsmanship, has been associated with Mandar production for centuries. Today, four generations of 22 families in the village continue this traditional craft.

The Mandar is characterized by its distinctive cylindrical shape made from red clay, slightly bulging in the middle. The hollow structure has leather coverings on both sides, secured by braided cords. The right opening is smaller than the left. The smaller opening is coated with Kiran, giving Mandar its unique sound. The musician moves rhythmically while playing, carrying the instrument by a rope slung over the shoulder.

The GI tag would not only bolster Jharkhand's cultural identity but also create opportunities for preserving and globally promoting Mandar. Jharkhand currently has a single GI tag, awarded in 2021 to Sohrai paintings from Hazaribagh.