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Tamil Nadu, a land celebrated for its diverse handwoven sarees, has yet another gem stepping into the spotlight — the Sirumugai Menpattu Pudavaigal. This particular saree from the Coimbatore region is now seeking the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag — a recognition that will preserve its heritage, protect its weavers, and celebrate its timeless legacy in the world of handloom artistry. The Sirumugai Anaithu Kaithari Pattu Selai Urpathi Mattrum Virpanaiyalargal Sangam and the Patent Information Centre of Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology (TNSCST), Chennai have jointly filed the application. Bharathiar University, Coimbatore did an elaborate research for this filing. These sarees are woven from the finest Indian mulberry silk. Only cocoons reared on mulberry leaves are used. And every Sirumugai Menpattu saree comes with a Silk Mark certificate, issued by the Silk Mark Organisation of India, as proof of authenticity. “Traditional silk sarees are very heavy but Sirumugai sarees are lightweight and easy to wear. They are handwoven using traditional looms,” M. Nagarajan, President of Sirumugai Anaithu Kaithari Pattu Selai Urpathi Mattrum Virpanaiyalargal Sangam, told The Hindu. Each saree typically weighs between 500 and 600 grams. On average, it takes about two to three days to weave one. Prices start at around ₹6,000 and can go up to several lakh, depending on the design and craftsmanship. “Currently, these sarees are sold throughout India. On the export front, the sarees from here are sent to the US, Canada, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia and other countries,” Mr. Nagarajan said. “Getting a GI tag for this product will enhance the livelihood of the weavers. It will also motivate the next generation to take this business forward,” he added. According to details shared by S.Vincent, Member Secretary of Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology, there are over 15,000 skilled weavers, 600 dyeing experts and 500 designers in this zone. The production units are situated in and around Mettupalayam and Annur taluk. The TNSCST has established IPR cells in 40 higher education institutions of Tamil Nadu, including one at Bharathiar University, to identify products pertaining to the region which have the potential to get GI tags.
