The long journey of Tiprasa Risa to earn wide recognition gained a boost as recently it got a Geographical Indication or GI tag.
The long-standing due was hampered by the Left regime since its outset. The growth of Indigenous culture by forcefully putting forward foreign culture among Tiprasa in the name of cultural amalgamation although this agenda has flunked.
The recognition GI tag holds significance as it assures for safeguarding of the reputation and quality of Indian products which is regulated by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999.
Since 2021 Homchang has continually advocated this recognition, and Bubagra Pradyot Manikya also promoted this effort by attending various ceremonies and interviews with Risa helping it to earn a distinct recognition. Following this the former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb was compelled to register a Gl tag for the Risa in May 2022.
The Killa Mahila Cluster of Gomati district facilitated by Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) aided in delivering the best among the risa for this tag which was congratulated by CM Dr. Manik Saha.
Risa is a traditionally handwoven cloth used by Triprajwk (female) as an upper garment, and also as headgear, a stole, or a present to convey respect towards the guest or visitor. The Risa is also used in sacred festivals like Ker, Kharchi and Garia Ter.
It is noteworthy to mention the BJP-IPFT government did bring the traditional Risa to spotlight since forming the govt in 2018. As a signature identity of the state, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and other Union ministers frequently sported it on visits.
(Courtesy- Homchang, Amit Debbarma)
